Nikon Launches Refined D5300 DSLR

2013.10.17

While some others are introducing new types of digital cameras, Nikon has been busy perfecting their lineup of DSLRs, the most sought-after type of camera. Today, they just unveiled the Nikon D5300 a refined version of the already excellent D5200 reviewed here. This new entry-level DSLR offers several improvements over its predecessor:

• No Anti-Alias filter
• Slightly larger OVF at 0.82X magnification, vs 0.78X
• Slightly larger LCD at 3.2" with 1 megapixel vs 3" with 920K pixels.
• Powerful EXPEED 4 processor which consumes less power. resulting in 600 shots-per-charge vs 500.
• Higher native maximum ISO of 12800 vs 6400. Both cameras are expandable to 25600 though.
• Full 1080p HD video at 60 FPS vs 30 FPS.
• Built-in WiFi.
• Built-in GPS.

The D5300 retains the remaining features of its predecessor and a very similar appearance. This means a lightweight body (480g) with a single control-dial yet a good number of external controls for its class. Inside is still a 24 megapixels APS-C high-resolution CMOS sensor paired with a 39-point Phase-Detect AF system. 9 of those points are cross-type which dives the D5300 the most sophisticated AF system among entry-level DSLRs.

The new features and refinement all provide some improvement over its predecessor. The big surprise here is the lack of an anti-alias filter, making the D5300 only the second large-sensor entry-level digital camera to do so. The other one being the diminutive Olympus E-PM2 mirrorless. This may signify that moire is not such a problem at was originally thought or there is no greater trust in software correction. After all, its appearance is rare and the common prevention mechanism - the anti-alias filter - reduces image quality uniformly regardless of the potential for artifacts.

The Nikon D5300 is scheduled to be available this month for a suggested price of $799 USD or $849 CDN. It will also be available bundled with the Nikkor DX 18-140mm F/3.5-5.6G ED VR for $1299 USD or $1199 CDN. Notice the body-only version is cheaper in the USA while the bundle costs less in Canada. Only Nikon knows why.

Adorama and B&H Photo are already accepting pre-orders. These New York based stores accept international orders too.

• Digital Camera