Nikon D610 Makes Solid But Incremental Gains in Performance
Nikon D610 available for pre-order at B&H Photo.
Still no EVF option?
The Nikon D610 looks like a solid incremental advance. But like the new Pentax K3, it is yet another DSLR lacking an EVF option. An EVF is a huge advantage and there is no defensible reason that a DSLR should lack one, nor does an EVF preclude also having an optical viewfinder (OVF).
Why should the advantages of an EVF (which are legion) be restricted to mirrorless cameras? A DSLR could be a “better mirrorless camera”, offering the best of both worlds. The lack of an EVF is a compelling disadvantage to a DSLR, at least for my eyes.
Highlights of the Nikon D610
We might have hoped for a 32-megapixel or 36-megapixel sensor concurrent with a 48 or 46 megapixel Nikon D800E. And will a Nikon D810 be in the offing?
- Large 24.3 MP FX-format CMOS sensor delivers high quality images and elite low-light performance
- EXPEED 3 Processing Engine helps provide vivid colors and tonal range
- 39-point AF utilizing nine cross-type sensors and Scene Recognition System ready to capture each and every fleeting moment
- New shutter mechanism affords a faster frame rate allowing continuous shooting up to 6 frames-per-second
- New Quiet Continuous Shutter Mode allows users to shoot discreetly and quietly up to 3 frames-per-second
- Features a bright optical viewfinder (100% frame coverage) and high resolution 921,000 dot 3.2-inch LCD screen
- Several Advanced and Creative Modes available including built-in HDR, Time Lapse Mode, Picture Controls
- Full 1080p HD video at 24p and 30p that can feed 100% full screen, uncompressed video via HDMI to external devices
- Alongside an optional WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter, users can wirelessly transfer images to a smartphone or tablet for easy social sharing
- Dual SD memory card slots allow user to dedicate one card to stills, the other to video
Available in late October 2013 in a variety of configurations (pre-order Nikon D610):
- Body Only ($1999.95 SRP)
- With AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR Lens ($2599.95 SRP)
- With AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, 32 GB Class 10 Memory Card and Large Laptop Bag ($3049.95 SRP)
- With AF-S NIKKOR 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR Lens, AF-S VR ZOOM-NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED Lens, WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter, D-SLR Tablet Bag and 32 GB Class 10 Memory Card ($3249.95 SRP)