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10 Best Nikon Cameras 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Nikon Z6 III | Full-Frame mirrorless Stills/Video Camera with 6K/60p Internal RAW Recording | Nikon USA Model

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,161
Autofocus System
Video Capabilities

Most important from
53 reviews

Autofocus System
The autofocus system is significantly improved, especially in low light, making focusing effortless.
Video Capabilities
This camera excels in both movies and stills, making it a versatile tool for various needs.

The Nikon Z6 III is a full-frame mirrorless camera that excels in both still photography and video recording, making it a strong contender for professionals and advanced enthusiasts. One of its standout features is the impressive 6K/60p internal RAW video recording coupled with high-resolution 4K options, catering to those who prioritize video capabilities. The camera's wide ISO range of 100-64000 (expandable to 204800) allows for excellent performance in various lighting conditions, making it versatile for different shooting scenarios.

The autofocus system is another major strength, boasting 299 focus points with enhanced speed and accuracy, even in low light. This improvement will be particularly appreciated by those capturing fast-moving subjects or working in challenging conditions. The electronic viewfinder, with a maximum brightness of 4000 nits and a high resolution, provides a clear and vibrant view, which is essential for composing shots in bright environments.

However, the Z6 III does have some drawbacks. While it offers robust features, it is targeted more towards skilled users, which might be overwhelming for beginners. The build quality, although solid, could feel a bit bulkier compared to other lighter models, which might not be ideal for users who prefer a more compact camera for travel. Additionally, the lack of built-in image stabilization can be a concern for those who shoot handheld frequently, especially at longer focal lengths. In terms of lens compatibility, being part of the Nikon Z system is a plus, as there is a growing range of lenses available, but users may need to invest in additional lenses for specific needs. Despite its limitations, the Z6 III stands out for photographers and videographers looking for a powerful, feature-rich camera capable of delivering high-quality results.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,161
Autofocus System
Video Capabilities

Most important from
53 reviews

Autofocus System
The autofocus system is significantly improved, especially in low light, making focusing effortless.
Video Capabilities
This camera excels in both movies and stills, making it a versatile tool for various needs.
#2

Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, Black

Rating
10.0
ISO Range
Autofocus System
Build Quality and Ergonomics

Most important from
1521 reviews

ISO Range
The camera excels in low-light conditions, producing clear and sharp shots.
Autofocus System
The 18-140mm lens is truly excellent, offering versatile zoom capabilities and fast autofocus.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The camera's sturdy body adds weight but enhances the feeling of robustness.

The Nikon D7500 is a versatile DSLR camera with a 20.9MP sensor, making it suitable for both professional and serious amateur photographers. One of its standout features is the high ISO range, which allows for excellent performance in low-light conditions. Additionally, the 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors ensures sharp and accurate focusing, making it great for capturing fast-moving subjects with its 8 fps continuous shooting capability.

The tilting 3.2” LCD touchscreen is convenient for composing shots from various angles and adds to its user-friendly design. The camera also excels in video recording, offering 4K Ultra HD and 1080p Full HD video capabilities, which is a plus for videographers. The build quality is robust, and ergonomics are well-thought-out, providing a comfortable grip for extended use. It comes with a versatile 18-140mm lens, covering a broad range of focal lengths suitable for various types of photography.

However, the camera does have some drawbacks. It has only one memory card slot, which might be a limitation for some professional users who prefer dual slots for backup purposes. The absence of a built-in GPS may also be a downside for those who prioritize geotagging their photos. Despite these minor cons, the Nikon D7500 offers excellent image quality, reliable performance, and a solid feature set, making it a great choice for photographers looking for a capable and well-rounded DSLR camera.

Rating
10.0
ISO Range
Autofocus System
Build Quality and Ergonomics

Most important from
1521 reviews

ISO Range
The camera excels in low-light conditions, producing clear and sharp shots.
Autofocus System
The 18-140mm lens is truly excellent, offering versatile zoom capabilities and fast autofocus.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The camera's sturdy body adds weight but enhances the feeling of robustness.
#3

Nikon Z 8 | Professional full-frame mirrorless stills/video hybrid camera | Nikon USA Model

Rating
9.8
ISO Range
Autofocus System
Video Capabilities

Most important from
159 reviews

ISO Range
Images are sharp, even at higher ISO levels.
Autofocus System
The autofocus is fantastic, very fast, and picks up focus well.
Video Capabilities
Video image quality is superb but it's more of a very good camera than a dedicated video camera.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Not heavy and not too big, easy to carry.

The Nikon Z 8 is a top-tier professional full-frame mirrorless camera that excels in both still photography and video. Its standout feature is the 45.7-megapixel stacked CMOS sensor paired with Nikon's EXPEED 7 processing engine, delivering exceptionally detailed images. The advanced autofocus system, enhanced by deep learning, ensures sharp focus even in very low light conditions, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects like animals and vehicles.

For videographers, the Z 8 supports impressive internal 8K/60p and 4K/120p video recording, along with options for RAW and ProRes RAW formats, offering high-quality video production capabilities. It also boasts rapid continuous shooting speeds of up to 120 fps, perfect for action shots. The camera's build quality is robust, though it does lack water resistance, which might be a concern for those shooting in challenging environments.

With a 3.2-inch tilting touch screen and excellent viewfinder resolution, it provides a user-friendly interface. Battery life is reasonable but may require spares for extended shoots. Lens compatibility is extensive, supporting a wide range of Nikon Z lenses. However, the camera is relatively heavy at 1.81 pounds, which might be cumbersome for prolonged handheld use. In summary, the Nikon Z 8 is a versatile and powerful tool for professional photographers and videographers looking for high-resolution imagery and advanced video capabilities, though its weight and lack of water resistance are notable considerations.

Rating
9.8
ISO Range
Autofocus System
Video Capabilities

Most important from
159 reviews

ISO Range
Images are sharp, even at higher ISO levels.
Autofocus System
The autofocus is fantastic, very fast, and picks up focus well.
Video Capabilities
Video image quality is superb but it's more of a very good camera than a dedicated video camera.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Not heavy and not too big, easy to carry.

Buying Guide for the Best Nikon Cameras

Choosing the right Nikon camera can be a rewarding experience, but it requires some understanding of the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Whether you're a beginner, enthusiast, or professional, knowing what to look for will help you make an informed decision. Here are the key specs to consider when selecting a Nikon camera.
Sensor SizeThe sensor size in a camera determines the quality of the images it can produce. Larger sensors, like full-frame sensors, capture more light and detail, making them ideal for professional photography and low-light conditions. APS-C sensors are smaller but still offer excellent quality and are often found in mid-range cameras, suitable for enthusiasts and hobbyists. If you're a beginner or need a compact camera, a smaller sensor like a Micro Four Thirds might be sufficient. Consider what kind of photography you plan to do and choose a sensor size that matches your needs.
MegapixelsMegapixels refer to the resolution of the camera's sensor, indicating how many millions of pixels it can capture. Higher megapixels mean more detail, which is beneficial for large prints and cropping images without losing quality. Cameras with 20-30 megapixels are typically sufficient for most users, providing a good balance between detail and file size. If you're a professional or need extremely high resolution for commercial work, you might look for cameras with 40+ megapixels. For everyday use and sharing online, even 12-16 megapixels can be adequate.
ISO RangeISO range measures the camera's sensitivity to light. A wider ISO range allows for better performance in various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light environments. Cameras with a high maximum ISO (e.g., 25600 or higher) are great for low-light photography, such as night scenes or indoor events. If you often shoot in well-lit conditions, a camera with a moderate ISO range (e.g., up to 6400) will suffice. Consider your typical shooting environments and choose a camera with an ISO range that matches your needs.
Autofocus SystemThe autofocus system determines how quickly and accurately the camera can focus on a subject. Advanced autofocus systems with more focus points and faster performance are crucial for action, sports, and wildlife photography. If you need precise focus for fast-moving subjects, look for cameras with sophisticated autofocus capabilities. For general photography, a basic autofocus system with fewer focus points may be adequate. Think about the types of subjects you will be photographing and choose a camera with an autofocus system that meets those demands.
Video CapabilitiesIf you plan to shoot videos, consider the camera's video capabilities. Look for features like 4K resolution, frame rates, and video-specific settings. Cameras with 4K video offer high-quality footage, suitable for professional videography and future-proofing your content. For casual video recording, Full HD (1080p) might be enough. Additionally, check for features like microphone input, headphone jack, and in-body stabilization if you need better audio and smoother video. Your video needs will guide you in choosing the right camera.
Build Quality and ErgonomicsThe build quality and ergonomics of a camera affect how comfortable it is to use and how well it can withstand different conditions. Professional cameras often have robust, weather-sealed bodies that can handle tough environments, making them suitable for outdoor and travel photography. Mid-range and entry-level cameras might be lighter and more compact, which can be beneficial for everyday use and portability. Consider how and where you will use the camera and choose one that feels comfortable in your hands and meets your durability requirements.
Lens CompatibilityNikon cameras come with different lens mounts, such as F-mount for DSLRs and Z-mount for mirrorless cameras. The availability and compatibility of lenses can significantly impact your photography experience. If you already own Nikon lenses, ensure they are compatible with the camera you choose. For new users, consider the range of lenses available for the camera system and how they align with your photography needs. A versatile lens lineup can enhance your creative possibilities and future-proof your investment.

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