Nikon D90
Announced August 27, 2008
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
Strong
The Nikon D90 is a versatile, enthusiast-level DSLR that delivers excellent image quality and fast performance at a competitive price point. Although its integrated video mode is limited by manual-only focusing and some motion artifacts, the camera remains a highly capable tool for traditional photography.
Weighted from 21 reviewer scores
Pros
- Solid, ergonomic build with a bright, high-resolution 3-inch LCD screen
- High-quality, detailed 12.3-megapixel image output
- Fast, accurate autofocus performance and operational speed
- Compatibility with a wide range of Nikon lenses via the built-in focus motor
- Useful in-camera features including dust reduction and image retouching
Cons
- Slow, manual-only autofocus during video recording
- Performance issues and noise at high ISO settings
- Cumbersome Live View operation and sluggish focus acquisition
- Lack of modern lens compatibility like AF-P or electronic aperture control
- Fixed rear display without articulation
- Launch price $999.95 (USD)
- Sensor 12.3MP CMOS
- Burst 4.5 fps electronic
What the Reviewers Say
All 21 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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We described the D80 as a photographer’s camera and, despite the addition of video, the D90 appears to share that same ethos.
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[T]he Nikon D90 is an exceptionally well-rounded digital SLR offering, with just about everything an aspiring photographer will need, and quite a few of the advanced features found on the higher-priced SLRs in Nikon's line, but at a lower price.
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It should also be pointed out, though, that as a traditional stills camera, the D90 handled really beautifully and is capable of delivering some excellent results.
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Obviously, the Nikon D90 includes "all you need to fuel your passion for photography".
- WIRED 9/10
Nikon's latest offering, the 12-megapixel D90 is a feature-packed fistful of photo fury that's sure to help pave your way to full-fledged Flickrati status. Straight from the box and out on the street the D90 shows off its picture-making prowess.
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It would, however, be a gross mistake to write off the D90 just because its movie mode is a bit rough around the edges.
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The Nikon D90 is a logical progression from the D80, and covers the middle ground between the consumer models like the D40X and the new D60, and the professional models like the D300 and the D700.
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For £850 you can get you cameras with pro levels of build quality, features and resolution.
- CNET 8/10
Like the D80 before it, the Nikon D90 delivers an excellent dSLR for the money.
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In general, the Nikon D90 camera is simply lovely, a wide range of functions will allow both professional and amateur to work. The speed of work and the quality of the picture are very pleasing.
- Photo Review 8.8/10
Video in a DSLR is a significant advance – particularly at the D90’s price point.
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In the final analysis, the D90 represents is a brilliant upgrade on the D80, worries over dynamic range need addressing but this is a new Nikon certainly capable of stunning results and, when looking at the body only price, it represents stunning value for money too.
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Even forgetting about the D90's nearly exclusive movie-recording ability, this is an exceptional DSLR.
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The Nikon D90 is a fantastic camera. It's Nikon's newest and best DX format DSLR.
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[T]his is a camera capable of producing excellent astrophotos.
- Paul Stamatiou 9/10
Regardless of those issues, the core still photography utility is fantastic and makes the D90 a great platform for any amateur photographer.
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Consider it the Corvette to Canon’s Lamborghini—i.e., it’s not the most luxurious, but it’s still one very sweet machine: 4.5-frames-per-second shooting, a 12.3-meg sensor, and a best-in-the-industry, super-hi-res three-inch LCD screen.
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My thoughts with this camera are very good choice if you are trying to get into photography, you don't want to spend too much money.
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While its not the cheapest 12 megapixel DSLRs by any means the Nikon D90 offers excellent value because of its speed remarkable versatility and superb image quality.
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I don't use it that often, I use it more for pictures, taking pictures of our kids, family moments and that type of stuff. If there's an occasional shoot where I want that extra shot I'll go and grab this but, usually this honestly doesn't get as much play as I'd like.
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[T]his Nikon D90 camera is an excellent beginner and pro camera. I would definitely recommend it.
