Nikon D7100 Just Announced

The new Nikon D7100 DSLR features a 24.1MP DX-format CMOS sensor and an EXPEED 3 image processor, which work together to produce high resolution still imagery and full HD 1080i/p video in multiple frame rates. Movie recording is also benefitted through the inclusion of both external microphone and headphone jacks as well as the ability to manual adjust exposure settings during recording. A notable improvement in image sharpness and resolution is afforded through the removal of the optical low-pass filter, and a 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors ensures quick and precise focusing. The large 3.2" 1,229k-dot LCD monitor allows live view monitoring and image review and the optical pentaprism viewfinder incorporates an OLED information display and provides 100% field coverage. The EXPEED 3 image processor also provides a wealth of speed throughout the camera system and enables a full-resolution continuous shooting rate of 6fps, a 1.3x DX crop continuous shooting rate of 7fps and an expandable maximum sensitivity to ISO 25600. The new Spot White Balance features permits selective control over custom white balance settings and built-in HDR automatically composites bracketed frames to produce a single image with an extended dynamic range. The D7100 is compatible with the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter to enable wireless connectivity and the ability to instantly transfer imagery to iOS and Android mobile devices. Housing all of the imaging technology is a redesigned body that features magnesium alloy top and rear covers for increased durability and moisture- and weather-resistance. The D7100 is available as a body only or in a kit with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5l.6G ED VR lens.

I own a D7000 and a D800. I love my D7000 so I can read the specs on the D7100 and see the subtle differences between models. The increased number of focal points is interesting but not a deal breaker. The increased resolution is again a slight improvement but not something that would cause me to upgrade because it still pales compared to my D800. What is interesting is the price they're asking for the new, improved model. For someone just getting into a DSLR it's such a quality camera that the $1300 asking price for the body is tempting. Add to the the reduced price on the Nikon 18-200mm F/3.5-5.6 VRII to $596 and a 70-300mm F/4-5.6G at $120 there are bargains galore.

Hi Bob
Yes it looks a lot of bang for the buck doesn't it? Its a camera i would consider as an upgrade to my D90, i like the increased magnification factor the APS-C sensors provide. (I am still undecided about going full frame), and with a 51 point autofocus system and 24M pixels it should be pretty good quality. Lets hope the reviews say the same thing. I think i paid $1000 for my D90 when it was first released, so $1300 seems a fair starting price.

I moved up from the D90 to that D7000 because of the increase in the number of focus points and especially the low light sensitivity of the D7000. Your other options include the D600 and D800 FF cameras. In general remember full frame lenses for those cameras will cost you more money with the exception of the Nikkor 70-300mm F/4-5.6G which is a huge bargain. On the APS-C cropped sensor D7100 that translates to about a 105-450mm zoom, quite a bargain at $115. I love it and use it on my D7000 for most of my zoo animal shots.

Sounds good

With the 7d mk2 on the way, It will be interesting to see whether Nikon call it a day with the D7100 (as their top cropper) or if they feel there's enough room left spec wise under to go ahead with a D400.

Sounds interesting , I bought the D7000 when my D300 started to limp along with a focus problem, and I was waiting for the D800 to be released. Truthfully, out of the cropped bodies I own, I still prefer the way my D300 felt in my hands, the D7000 is smaller and to me too light, I had to put a battery grip on mine straight away, and I am glad they have improved the body on the D7100 as the D7000 can feel a little plasticky IMO, and I personally think the weather proofing is not that good.

Funny you should mention it Moonie

Lots of D300 / D300S users continue to hold out to see whether a D400 comes along at the top of the crop line up.

It will be interesting to see what happens now because if the D400 doesn't come - whilst I'm not exactly sure of their reasons other than size/build/body, there are a lot of people talking about jumping ship to the 7D Mark 2

I needed a camera for a trip in 2011, and my D300 was just not reliable any more, and was trying to hold out for FF, but was waiting for the D800, so I bought it as a stop gap, it has great focus, but it's the build I have never been truly happy with, I always like to use a camera gripped, and even then it still doesn't have the same feel. Picture quality is fine, it's just the body that let's it down IMO.

My D7000 is gripped but I still prefer the lighter version without the battery grip. The D800 has considerable more weight & bulk, especially while carrying the 24-70 F/2.8 Nikkor.

Looks like a nice bit of kit - I wonder if a D400 is on the cards soon too..