Nikon D3

Discontinued

Pros

Great for action shots
Viewfinder doesn't clip image
Sharp LCD with live-view
Choice of image formats

Cons

No built-in flash
12.1-megapixel sensor
Sensor not self-cleaning
Autofocus good but not perfect

Where to Buy

February 2009. Reviewers agree that despite its relatively low 12.1-megapixel resolution, the Nikon D3 is the best full-frame DSLR camera for fast-action shots and for shooting in low-light conditions. This camera also earns praise for its 100 percent viewfinder (meaning it doesn't clip any of the image), high-resolution LCD screen with live view, sturdy build and overall usability. You can also choose among several image formats, and the camera accepts any Nikon lens. The main drawback, besides the sensor resolution, is that the sensor isn't self-cleaning. If you seldom need a camera this fast, consider the less expensive Canon EOS 5D Mark II (*est. $2,700 body only, $3,500 with kit lens), which provides a movie mode.

We found the most objective tests of the Nikon D3 at DxOMark.com (testing the camera's sensor) and at ProPhoto, which measured its autofocus on fast-action shots. For more comprehensive coverage of performance, usability and image quality, we turn to more detailed reviews and ratings at What Digital Camera? (a U.K. publication), CNet.com and American Photo. Ken Rockwell doesn't provide ratings, but his long experience with Canon and Nikon cameras makes his recommendations very credible.

Where To Buy

Nikon D3 12.1MP FX Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)
(36 reviews) 11 Used from $2,699.00

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Our Sources

1. DXOMark.com

Lab tests here rank the sensor on the Nikon D3 above that of the more expensive Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III, especially for sensitivity in low light. Bear in mind that this is only one factor in image quality, but it's important if you plan to shoot at high ISO settings.

Review: Detailed Image Quality Data for Nikon D3, Editors of DxOMark.com

2. ProPhotoHome.com

Objective tests comparing action shots (of a runner) show that the Nikon D3 autofocus provides sharp results on only slightly more than half the shots.

Review: Canon 1D MKIII vs. Nikon D3 Sports Autofocus Showdown, Editors of and contributors to ProPhotoHome.com, May 8, 2008

3. What Digital Camera

Editors at this U.K. photography publication give the Nikon D3 their "highest ever score" with special praise for the high image quality even at high ISOs (for low lighting). The only drawbacks are the relatively low resolution (by today's standards) and a fixed, not hinged, LCD screen.

Review: The Big Test: Nikon D3, Jamie Harrison

4. CNET

The Nikon D3 earns a rating of 9.3 on a 10-point scale here, with the relatively low 12.1-megapixel resolution the main drawback. The camera also earns CNet.com's Editors' Choice award.

Review: Nikon D3, Philip Ryan, July 31, 2008

5. American Photo

From this photography magazine aimed at enthusiasts and professionals, the Nikon D3 wins the Editor's Choice award for best professional DSLR camera. Editors praise its features, build quality, fast speed and overall image quality, especially in low light.

Review: Editor's Choice 2008: Professional D-SLRs, Jonathan Barkey and Russell Hart, June 2008

6. DPReview.com

Quite a few DSLR cameras are highly recommended at this review site, but the Nikon D3 earns the highest ratings of all. The main drawback is that the sensor isn't self-cleaning.

Review: Nikon D3 In-Depth Review, Simon Joinson and Phil Askey, April 2008

7. Ken Rockwell

Experienced photographer and camera reviewer Ken Rockwell calls the Nikon D3 the best camera Nikon has made, with only a few minor complaints. In a July 2008 review comparing it with the Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700, Rockwell picks the Nikon D3 as the best choice for fast-action shots.

Review: Nikon D3 Review, Ken Rockwell, Aug. 2008

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