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10 Best Nikon Camera For Beginners 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, Black
The Nikon D7500 is a solid choice for beginners looking to dive into DSLR photography. With its 20.9MP sensor, it delivers impressive image quality, making it suitable for capturing a wide range of scenes. Its ISO range of 100-51,200 allows for good performance in low light, which is particularly beneficial for those starting out who might encounter various lighting conditions. The 51-point autofocus system, including 15 cross-type sensors, ensures accurate focusing, and the ability to shoot continuously at 8 frames per second is great for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,142
Autofocus System
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Most important from
1650 reviews
#2
Nikon D780 w/AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR
The Nikon D780 with the AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm lens is an excellent choice for beginner photographers who want to step into the world of DSLR cameras. With a 24.5MP full-frame sensor, it excels in low-light conditions and captures stunning details, making it suitable for various photography styles, from portraits to landscapes. The camera offers impressive video capabilities, including 4K UHD recording, which will appeal to those interested in videography as well. Its Dual Autofocus system, featuring both 51-point and 273-point AF, ensures that you can achieve sharp focus whether using the viewfinder or the touchscreen, enhancing the shooting experience.
Rating
9.7
Autofocus System
Lens Compatibility
Video Capabilities
Most important from
217 reviews
#3
Nikon D7500 DX-Format Digital SLR Body
The Nikon D7500 is a solid choice for beginners who want a camera that can grow with their skills, especially those interested in quality photos and 4K video. It features a 20.9-megapixel APS-C (DX-format) sensor that captures sharp, detailed images even in low light, thanks to its wide ISO range (50 to 164000). Its 51-point autofocus system, including eye detection, helps you focus quickly and accurately, which is great for learning how to capture moving subjects.
Rating
9.1
Sensor Size
Megapixels
ISO Range
Most important from
1650 reviews
Top 10 Best Nikon Camera For Beginners 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, Black
Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, Black
Sensor Size: APS-C
Megapixels: 20.9 MP
ISO Range: 100-51,200
Autofocus System: 51-point, 15 cross-type sensors
Lens Compatibility: Nikon DX
Video Capabilities: 4K, 1080p HD
Ease of Use: 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen
Chosen by 1142 this week
Nikon D780 w/AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR
Nikon D780 w/AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR
Sensor Size: Full-frame
Megapixels: 24.5MP
ISO Range: 50-204800
Autofocus System: Dual AF, 51-point, 273-point
Lens Compatibility: Nikon F
Video Capabilities: 4K UHD recording
Ease of Use: Tilting touchscreen LCD
Battery Life: 2,260 shots
Build Quality and Ergonomics: 1.5 kg
Nikon D7500 DX-Format Digital SLR Body
Nikon D7500 DX-Format Digital SLR Body
Sensor Size: APS-C (DX-format)
Megapixels: 20.9 MP
ISO Range: 50 to 164000
Autofocus System: 51-point AF with eye detection
Lens Compatibility: Nikon F mount lenses
Video Capabilities: 4K UHD, power aperture, time-lapse
Battery Life: Reasonable for DSLR
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Well-made, good ergonomics, comfortable
Nikon Z 5 with Compact Zoom Lens | Our most compact full-frame mirrorless stills/video camera with 24-50mm zoom lens | Nikon USA Model
Nikon Z 5 with Compact Zoom Lens | Our most compact full-frame mirrorless stills/video camera with 24-50mm zoom lens | Nikon USA Model
Sensor Size: full-frame
Megapixels: 24.3MP
Autofocus System: Eye-Detection
Lens Compatibility: Nikon Z
Video Capabilities: 4K at 30p, 1080 at 60p
Build Quality and Ergonomics: sturdy
Nikon Z 6II | Versatile full-frame mirrorless stills/video hybrid camera | Nikon USA Model
Nikon Z 6II | Versatile full-frame mirrorless stills/video hybrid camera | Nikon USA Model
Sensor Size: Full Frame 35mm
Megapixels: 24.5 MP
ISO Range: 100-51200
Autofocus System: 273-Point Phase-Detect AF
Lens Compatibility: NIKKOR Z and older Nikon lenses
Video Capabilities: 4K UHD 2160p up to 60 fps
Battery Life: Decent for mirrorless camera
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Solid build, comfortable, tilting touchscreen
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Nikon D7200 DX-format DSLR w/ 18-140mm VR Lens (Black)
Nikon D7200 DX-format DSLR w/ 18-140mm VR Lens (Black)
Sensor Size: DX-format
Megapixels: 24.2 MP
ISO Range: 100-102400
Autofocus System: 51-point autofocus, 15 cross-type
Lens Compatibility: Nikon F mount
Video Capabilities: Full HD 1080p at 60 fps
Ease of Use: Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC
Battery Life: 1110 photos per charge
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Comfortable grip, durable, 1.49 pounds
Nikon Z 50 with Two Lenses | Compact mirrorless stills/video camera with wide-angle and telephoto zoom lenses | Nikon USA Model
Nikon Z 50 with Two Lenses | Compact mirrorless stills/video camera with wide-angle and telephoto zoom lenses | Nikon USA Model
Sensor Size: DX-format
Megapixels: 20.9 MP
ISO Range: 100-204800
Autofocus System: Phase Detection, Contrast Detection
Lens Compatibility: Nikkor Z, F Mount via FTZ
Video Capabilities: 4K UHD
Ease of Use: User-friendly
Battery Life: Adequate
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Robust and durable
Nikon COOLPIX P1100 Superzoom Digital Camera | 125x Optical Zoom with Image Stabilization 16 MP 4K Ultra HD Video Wi-Fi Connectivity RAW Format and Rotating LCD Screen (Black)
Nikon COOLPIX P1100 Superzoom Digital Camera | 125x Optical Zoom with Image Stabilization 16 MP 4K Ultra HD Video Wi-Fi Connectivity RAW Format and Rotating LCD Screen (Black)
Sensor Size: 1/2.3-inch
Megapixels: 16 MP
ISO Range: 100-6400
Autofocus System: Face Detection
Lens Compatibility: Shoe Mount
Video Capabilities: 4K UHD
NIkon COOLPIX P950 Superzoom Digital Camera | 83x Optical Zoom with Image Stabilization 16 MP 4K Ultra HD Video Wi-Fi Connectivity RAW Format and Rotating LCD Screen (Black)
NIkon COOLPIX P950 Superzoom Digital Camera | 83x Optical Zoom with Image Stabilization 16 MP 4K Ultra HD Video Wi-Fi Connectivity RAW Format and Rotating LCD Screen (Black)
Sensor Size: 1/2.3-inch
Megapixels: 16 MP
ISO Range: 100-12800
Autofocus System: Contrast Detection, 399 points
Lens Compatibility: Nikon F
Video Capabilities: 4K UHD 2160p
Battery Life: Approx. 290 shots
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Sturdy, 1000 grams
#10
Nikon D5600 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm VR and 70-300mm Lenses + 128GB Card, Tripod, Flash, and More (20pc Bundle)
Nikon D5600 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm VR and 70-300mm Lenses + 128GB Card, Tripod, Flash, and More (20pc Bundle)
Sensor Size: DX-Format
Megapixels: 24.2 MP
ISO Range: 100-25600
Autofocus System: 39-point
Lens Compatibility: Nikon F
Video Capabilities: Full HD 1080p at 60 fps
Ease of Use: 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen
Build Quality and Ergonomics: solid but lightweight
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Buying Guide for the Best Nikon Camera For Beginners
Choosing the right Nikon camera as a beginner can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. The key is to understand the features that matter most to you and how they align with your photography goals. By focusing on the essential specifications, you can make an informed decision that will help you grow as a photographer and enjoy the process of capturing beautiful images.Sensor SizeThe sensor size in a camera determines the quality of the images it can produce. Larger sensors, like APS-C or full-frame, capture more light and detail, resulting in better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. For beginners, an APS-C sensor is a great starting point as it offers a good balance between quality and cost. If you plan to pursue photography more seriously, you might consider a full-frame sensor for its superior performance.
MegapixelsMegapixels refer to the resolution of the camera's sensor, indicating how many millions of pixels it can capture. Higher megapixels mean more detail in your photos, which is useful for large prints or cropping images without losing quality. For beginners, a camera with 16-24 megapixels is usually sufficient, providing ample detail for most photography needs without overwhelming file sizes.
ISO RangeISO range measures the camera's sensitivity to light. A wider ISO range allows you to shoot in various lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to dim indoor settings. For beginners, a camera with an ISO range of 100-25600 is typically adequate, offering flexibility to experiment with different lighting scenarios while maintaining good image quality.
Autofocus SystemThe autofocus system helps you achieve sharp focus on your subjects quickly and accurately. A good autofocus system is crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in challenging conditions. Beginners should look for a camera with at least 11-39 autofocus points, which provides a good balance of performance and ease of use. More advanced systems with higher points are beneficial if you plan to shoot action or wildlife photography.
Lens CompatibilityLens compatibility refers to the range of lenses that can be used with the camera. Nikon cameras typically use F-mount or Z-mount lenses. As a beginner, it's important to choose a camera that offers a wide variety of lenses to grow with your skills and interests. Starting with a versatile kit lens (e.g., 18-55mm) is a good idea, and you can expand your collection as you become more experienced.
Video CapabilitiesIf you plan to shoot videos in addition to photos, consider the camera's video capabilities. Look for features like Full HD (1080p) or 4K resolution, frame rates, and microphone input for better audio quality. For beginners, a camera with Full HD video is usually sufficient, but if you have a keen interest in videography, opting for 4K can future-proof your investment.
Ease of UseEase of use is crucial for beginners who are still learning the ropes of photography. Look for a camera with a user-friendly interface, intuitive controls, and helpful features like guided modes or tutorials. A tilting or fully articulating touchscreen can also make it easier to navigate settings and compose shots from different angles.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long you can shoot before needing to recharge or replace the battery. For beginners, a camera with a battery life of at least 600 shots per charge is recommended, ensuring you can capture plenty of photos during your outings without frequent interruptions.
Build Quality and ErgonomicsBuild quality and ergonomics affect how comfortable the camera is to hold and use. A well-built camera with a good grip and logical button placement can make your shooting experience more enjoyable. For beginners, it's important to choose a camera that feels comfortable in your hands and is durable enough to withstand regular use.