Nikon 1 J3
Announced January 8, 2013
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Good
The Nikon 1 J3 is a compact, interchangeable lens camera that delivers swift autofocus and high-speed burst shooting performance. Although it offers a solid build and responsive operation, the system is hindered by a confusing menu interface, limited low-light capabilities, and a lack of advanced manual controls.
Weighted from 11 reviewer scores
Pros
- Fast and responsive autofocus performance
- High-quality, durable metal construction
- Compact and portable physical design
- Capable of rapid burst shooting
- Accurate color reproduction and skin tones
Cons
- Difficult menu system and limited manual controls
- Poor image quality and noise at high ISO settings
- Lack of viewfinder and accessory support
- High price point
- Short battery life
- Launch price $599.95 (USD)
- Sensor 14.2MP 1-inch CMOS
- Video 1080p 60p 4K 0p
- Stabilization None
- Burst 60 fps electronic
What the Reviewers Say
All 11 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
Is this product missing a reputable review? Share a link to a review article or YouTube video for consideration.
-
Compared to its Nikon 1 J2 predecessor, the J3 is a much improved camera. In essence, the J3 is the V2 in a compact, viewfinder-less body, geared to the casual user.
-
The Nikon 1 J3 takes well exposed images with decent colour reproduction.
-
In what must be one of the quickest releases in recent memory, the new J3 replaces the previous J2 model after a mere 4 months on the shelves.
-
The Nikon 1 J3 is a decent entry-level CSC, but it’s let down by a confusing menu system and a lack of features compared to its rivals.
-
The Nikon J3 compact interchageable lens camera is a speedy performer, but it isn't the best in low light, and lacks expansion options when compared with the competition.
-
The Nikon 1 J3 is a very likeable camera, and if you're new to the CSC market it's certainly a good option. [...] With a few niggles, though, it's far from being perfect.
-
A look at the control interface is enough to show that the J3 is more like a point-and-shoot compact camera with interchangeable lenses, rather than a creative camera in a small form factor.
-
The J3 may be slightly smaller, lighter and faster than its J2 predecessor but the change is all too slight, despite the exterior design rejig and menu overhaul.
-
While the J3 has delivered four more million pixels in resolution over the J2 (and the newer S1), as when we compared the J2 to the original J1, the J3 comes across as more refinement - or rather consolidation of market position - than revolution.
-
The Nikon 1 J3 is a compact SLD with a unique 14 megapixels sensor which provides ultra-fast Phase-Detect autofocus, continuous shooting up to 60 FPS and full 1080p HD video.
-
That's all I have to share about why I think that this Nikon 1 system is the best one-inch compact camera for street photography.
