Nikon D5200 (Expanded Guides)

A mid-range DSLR, the Nikon D5200—long awaited replacement for the D5100—is the next model up in line from the company's D3200 and intended for anyone seeking good quality images without the expense of a high-end DSLR. Apart from a new top-plate drive mode button and a stereo microphone in front of the hot-shoe, the D5200 is physically similar to its predecessor, although the neat, compact body contains many internal upgrades. These include a 39-point AF system that covers most of the frame, and a 2016 pixel RGB color-sensitive metering sensor. The D5200 features a 24MP CMOS sensor and offers a greater ISO range than its predecessor—25,600 compared to 12,800 (noise levels are low up to about ISO 6400)—and faster continuous shooting (5 fps compared to 4 fps). Video mode offers considerable creative control: you can manually adjust aperture, shutter speed and ISO levels, or optionally record Full HD movies at 30, 25 or 24frames per second at 1920x1080. The D5200 supports Nikon's WU-1a Wi-Fi unit that plugs into the camera's accessory terminal and allows images to be transmitted wirelessly to a smartphone or tablet. The 18–55mm kit lens ideal for newcomers to DSLRs, while the K-mount enables the use of any other lenses from a Nikon DSLR. The camera's 3in. articulated LCD screen renders accurate colors, and features an anti-glare coating.