Nikon d 5500 photo examples. Nikon D5500 - another successful model or a marketing ploy? HDR operating modes

Capture the beauty of the world around you in stunning photos taken with the D5500. Lightweight and compact, yet powerful, this DSLR with easy-to-understand touch controls lets you master the art of photography.

The D5500 delivers excellent results both when shooting fast-moving subjects and when working in low light conditions. Even if photos and videos are printed in large format or displayed on a large screen, they will accurately and in great detail reflect your vision of the world.

The highly sensitive vari-angle touchscreen works with an intuitive interface for easy camera control, while built-in Wi-Fi enables fast transfer high quality photos to a smart device. This is an extremely handy and compact digital SLR camera that will help you achieve perfection in the art of photography.

Inspiring image quality

Forget about blurry photos and create bright, detailed images that will always be in the spotlight. Achieve unsurpassed results even when shooting fast-moving subjects or in low light conditions.

Vari-angle touch screen

Operate the camera with the same ease as a smartphone. Feel free to flip, tilt and twist the touchscreen to take unusual angles, then simply tap the screen to focus and take a picture.

Built-in WiFi module

It is very convenient to use a smart device with this camera. Use built-in Wi-Fi to easily transfer high-resolution photos to compatible smartphones and tablets.¹

Comfortable handle

The protruding grip is so comfortable and secure that you won't want to let go of the camera. This feature, combined with its compact size and light weight, makes the D5500 an unrivaled shooting comfort.

High light sensitivity

Capture great quality photos and videos even in low light. With a wide ISO sensitivity range (100-25600), images are brighter and more detailed than ever.

D-video

Record smooth, detailed Full HD video clips (at frame rates up to 50p/60p) that audiences are sure to love. Continuous Live View AF keeps the subject in focus even when the subject is moving rapidly.

Perfect focus

Nikon's innovative 39-point autofocus system ensures precise targeting in any situation. Advanced 3D subject tracking keeps even the smallest subjects in focus, no matter how unpredictable their movements are.

NIKKOR

The quality of photos and videos directly depends on the capabilities of the lens. To take beautiful pictures with blurred background use fast lens with a fixed focal length, a telephoto lens for shooting distant objects, and a wide-angle lens for more dramatic effect.

Large high resolution monitor

allows you to see the smallest details of photos or videos when choosing the most unexpected angles. The large 8.1cm vari-angle LCD monitor will surprise you with wide viewing angle and high resolution (1037k dots). Whether you're shooting indoors or outdoors, you can easily compose and review your shots and apply special effects.

Effects mode

designed to create unique photos and videos using special effects. Use the Pop filter to make colors more vibrant and saturated, or use the Toy Camera Effect filter to create retro shots. You can view the selected effect, as well as adjust its intensity, right during shooting.

Nikon D5500: share your creative secrets

Powerful 24.2 megapixel sensor you'll amaze your friends with high-detail shots. The D5500 has a 24.2-megapixel sensor that does not use an optical low-pass filter (OLPF). You will get sharp and detailed images even when shooting textures with the smallest details.

Continuous shooting at 5 frames per second It will help to capture the whole gamut of emotions on the face or an expressive gesture, even if they were subtly fast. Capture every move with the D5500, capturing action at five frames per second.

EXPEED 4 system provides high-speed operation and crystal-clear images with natural colors in any light. Nikon's fast and powerful image processing system effectively reduces noise and improves the smoothness of movie shooting.

Compact design significantly expands the scope of use of the portable model D5500. This digital SLR is housed in a lightweight, rugged and compact all-in-one body that guarantees great results in any conditions.

Touch control makes it easier to use the camera. The highly sensitive touch screen supports the same intuitive interface as popular smart devices. With a single touch, you can focus the camera and take a picture or adjust settings such as shutter speed, aperture and ISO sensitivity. Swipe your finger across the screen to quickly view a collection of images. In addition, by pinching or spreading your fingers, you will reduce or enlarge the image while viewing.

Fn sensor function allows you to quickly adjust basic settings while shooting through the viewfinder with a simple swipe of your finger across the display. Up to eight settings can be assigned to Fn sensor functions, such as selection of focus points, AF area modes, aperture values, and ISO sensitivity.

Picture Control 2.0 will allow you to realize the most daring creative ideas. With the Picture Control system, you can quickly and accurately adjust the sharpness, hue, contrast, brightness, clarity, and saturation of images while shooting a photo or video. The photographer has seven modes available: Standard, Neutral, Vivid, Monochrome, Portrait and Landscape, as well as the Uniform mode, which stores all the information about the shades (it is worth choosing if you plan to further image processing after shooting).

Optical viewfinder allows you to better evaluate the composition and capture the desired shots with high accuracy. Use the viewfinder to focus on your photography and never lose sight of your subject. As soon as you move it away from your face, the captured image is automatically displayed on the D5500's LCD monitor. This feature makes shooting even easier.

System expandability using accessories for Nikon digital SLR cameras. A portable Nikon Speedlight makes flash photography a breeze, while the optional ME-1 Stereo Microphone ensures high-quality sound recording. Nikon provides you with the tools you need to bring your wildest ideas to life and excel in any genre of photography.

¹ To use the built-in Wi-Fi function, simply download Nikon's Wireless Mobile Utility to your smart device. The Wireless Mobile Utility is compatible with iOS™ and Android™ smart devices. It can be downloaded to a smart device from Google Play™ and the Apple App Store™. Android, Google, Google Play, YouTube and other marks are trademarks of Google Corporation.

SLR camera Nikon D5500 specifications

Main characteristics:
Lens Removable optics. Nikon F mount. Optics format - DX. Crop factor 1.5.
Matrix 24 MP, APS-C, CMOS
Light sensitivity ISO 100 - 25 600
autofocus Phase detection AF sensor Nikon Multi-CAM 4800DX, 39 focus points (including 9 cross type sensors). 1-, 9-, 21-, or 39-point dynamic AF, 3D tracking, auto-area AF.
Exposure Exposure control 2016 pixel RGB sensor. Matrix metering: 3D color matrix metering II (with type G, E, and D lenses). Center-weighted metering: 75% of measurements in the 8 mm circle in the center of the frame. Spot metering: Metering in a 3.5 mm circle (about 2.5% of frame) centered on selected focus point.
Screen TFT 3.2 inches, 1,036,800 dots, flip, swivel, touch. Coverage - 100%, viewing angle up to 170 degrees
Viewfinder Optical, field of view ≈95%, magnification 0.82x.
Image stabilizer No
Shooting modes Auto, PASM, scene programs, artistic effects.
Burst shooting Up to 5 frames per second.
Gate 1/4000 to 30 seconds in 1/3 or 1/2 EV increments, X-sync = 200 s. Exposure by hand, long exposure.
File Format JPEG (EXIF ver 2.30), RAW (12 or 14 bit), RAW + JPEG.
Video Full HD 1920 × 1080 60p in MOV(H.264/MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding) format.
Power supply Li-ion battery EN-EL14a (Approx. 820 shots, CIPA rating).
Memory SD / SDHC / SDXC memory cards.
Dimensions, weight 124 x 97 x 70 mm; 470 g (including the weight of the battery and memory card)
Additional characteristics:
Built-in flash Eat. Guide number ≈12.
Connectors USB 2.0; HDMI output (HDMI type C connector); video output NTSC, PAL; audio input (stereo mini-jack 3.5 mm); support for optional ME-1 stereo microphone.
"Hot Shoe" Eat
AF illuminator Eat
Bracketing By exposure, by D-Lighting, by white balance.
GPS / WiFi Option / built-in module
Self-timer 2s, 5s, 10s, 20s (from 1 to 9 exposures).
Shooting formats 3:2

SLR camera Nikon D5500 video review

Nikon D5500 professional reviews:

  • prophotos.ru - magazine about photographic equipment and photography No. 1
  • 3dnews.ru — 3D NEWS (Daily Digital Digest)
  • radojuva.com.ua - Happy, honest photoblog of Arkady Shapoval

SLR camera Nikon D5500

Advantages:

  • not a big and light camera;
  • the display is bright and sensitive;
  • works fast;
  • sufficiently capacious battery;
  • very comfortable in the hand;
  • good autofocus with backlight;
  • intuitive interface;
  • convenient swivel display;
  • high-quality photographs;
  • there is an HDR shooting mode;
  • excellent appearance;
  • very comfortable camera to use;
  • many modes and functions.

Flaws:

  • mediocre build quality.

Camera Nikon D 5500 reviews based on 6 user reviews in Yandex.Market.

Nikon D5500 Body user manual. How to download the user manual?

The instruction manual for the Nikon D5500 Kit is easy to download, at the top of the page you will see a table:

Right-click on the PDF image, then search in the "Save As" list, then save to your PC Nikon camera 5500 instruction in Russian, for example:

And the last step, select the folder in which you want to save the Nikon D 5500 camera user manual, for example, on the desktop:

We hope you managed to find the Nikon camera manual, download and use it successfully. We wish you a pleasant use of your camera from the company

The Nikon D5500 is a new 24.2 megapixel DX format digital camera without an optical low pass filter. D5500 has the function of recording Full HD video with a frequency of up to 60 fps and stereo sound. In addition, the novelty is equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi adapter and a 3.2-inch swivel touch screen for more convenient frame composition from non-standard shooting angles. It is worth noting that this is the first Nikon camera with a touch screen, interacting with which you can manually select the focus area and even release the shutter with one touch. Also on the screen is fast access to the main settings: autofocus modes, aperture, etc. By the way, the ISO range here is in the range of 100-25600 units, and the autofocus system is 39-point, including 9 cross sensors. The EXPEED 4 processor is responsible for image processing, maximum speed burst shooting - 5 fps. In addition, this camera has a 2016-pixel RGB metering sensor and supports shooting modes such as HDR, Active D-Lighting, and additionally has 10 different special effects for photos and videos. The camera is sold in two colors: black and red. The price for the body kit is $899.95. Also available with 2 lenses: AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II for $999.95 and DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR for $1199.95.

Ease of use Nikon D5500

The camera replaces the D5300 released in 2013. This camera has carved a niche in Nikon's extensive line of digital cameras between the D3300 and D7100 models in terms of not only its functionality, but also its size-to-weight ratio. At the same time, the novelty, thanks to the new design, is smaller and lighter than the previous D5300. The hand holder is made much deeper, which will be convenient for users with larger than average hands or long fingers. Also on the back is a rubberized place for the thumb. In general, the camera is not only comfortable in the hand, but also confidently held when moving.

The back of the camera

The Nikon D5500 uses the same 24.2-megapixel sensor without an optical low-pass filter as its predecessor. There is a self-cleaning function of the matrix by high-frequency vibrations, which, theoretically, should shake off all third-party particles from it. This feature can be configured to automatically execute when the camera is turned on, turned off, or both (default). It can also be completely disabled in the settings menu. The sensor cleaning process does not affect the camera startup time in any way. The matrix is ​​complemented by an EXPEED 4 image processor, as well as a large buffer for temporary data storage.

Nikon D5500 supports Wi-Fi wireless data transmission technology, but the developers decided to refuse GPS support. Geopositioning is proposed to be carried out using a separately connected external module or smartphone. So, using Wi-Fi, you can connect the camera and a smartphone running iOS or Android, which, in turn, will allow you to edit images and share them on social networks. In addition, with the Wireless Mobile Utility, a free utility for smartphones, you can remotely control the camera, up to selecting the focus area on the smartphone screen.

The Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 VR II lens, offered as standard with this camera, is one of the company's most talked about engineering innovations in recent times. This lens has a special lens position mode L, in which its physical parameters are much smaller, which is very convenient for storing and transporting optics. But, of course, before shooting, it will have to be moved apart to its usual size.

The new lens looks more balanced. It also has a built-in optical image stabilizer, which is very important in the case of optics for Nikon cameras, since Nikon cameras do not have this function, unlike some Sony, Pentax and Olympus models.

The Nikon D5500 shutter is noisier than the previous model. But in the camera settings there is a silent shutter mode, in which the mirror rises much more slowly to reduce the sounds emitted during this. However, in this mode, the shutter releases with a slight delay, which may be undesirable in some situations.

and Nikon 18-105mm lens
f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED DX VR Nikkor

Not so long ago, an old Nikon D5300 DSLR, released at the end of 2013, about a year and a half ago, visited our laboratory. Nikon D5300 - quite a combat camera, is in the current line. Moreover, its predecessor D5200 is also in the current Nikon line. So the heroine of our test is not intended to replace the old models. And if the change occurs, it will be slow. While the cameras get along well in the market, each occupies its own niche. The D5300 is a relatively inexpensive compact DSLR with a flip-out screen. The D5500 is a relatively expensive and even more compact DSLR with a flip, swivel and touch screen. And, accordingly, the purpose of our review and testing is to understand how the D5500 justifies a considerable increase in price, today - about 16,000 rubles.

Nikon D5300Nikon D5500
Announcement dateOctober 17, 2013January 6, 2015
FramePlastic with carbon fiber
MatrixCMOS APS-C 24MP
ISO sensitivity100 - 12 800
(up to 25 600) *
100 - 25 600
autofocus39 points (9 cross points)
meteringTTL, 2016-pixel sensor
Screen3.2 inches
1,040,000 points (720×480)
tilting, swivel
3.2 inches
1,040,000 points (720×480)
Burst speed≈5 fps
Video1920×1080
60p fps
CPUExpeed 4
Gate30 - 1/4000s, X-sync 1/200s
Memory cards1 slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
WiFi / GPS / USBbuilt-in module / built-in module
USB 2.0
built-in module / option
USB 2.0
Dimensions, weight125×98×76 mm
530** G
124×97×70 mm
470** G
Price, caseT-10545587T-11891121

* In brackets - in extended mode.

** Including the weight of the battery and memory card.


As you can see from the table, you can find 10 differences between the Nikon D5300 and D5500, although the cameras have a lot in common: the same processor, shutter settings, video capabilities, screen resolution, viewfinder, autofocus and exposure sensor. One difference is not in favor of the D5500 - new camera no built-in GPS module. Most likely, the matrices of the two cameras are the same (the total number of megapixels is 24.78).

Against the background of all these coincidences, it becomes unclear why the upper sensitivity of the D5300 is 12,800 ISO units, while the D5500 has 25,600 units? How did you improve noise immunity? Or is it just a marketing gimmick? However, we will soon find out if the D5500 has any advantages, the Noise test will show this.

But the differences between the D5300 and D5500 are significant. First of all, this is an extension of the screen functions, it has become touch-sensitive. And, of course, a significant reduction in weight and size. So significant that the D5500 can be directly compared not only with its predecessor, but also with cool mirrorless cameras.

CameraSensorDimensions (mm)Weight (g)Price
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6Four Thirds122×85×71390 T-9365888
Fujifilm X-T1APS-C129×90×47440 T-10687078
Nikon D5500APS-C124×97×70470 T-11891121
Olympus OM-D E-M 5 Mark IIFour Thirds124×85×38496 T-12114518
Olympus OM-D E-M1Four Thirds130×94×63497 T-10498016
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4Four Thirds130×94×63550 T-10710506

Good thing we know the Nikon D5500 is SLR camera, and the rest in this table are mirrorless. Otherwise, one would think that the models of the same type are assembled here, only one of them has a slightly elongated 70 mm “muzzle”.

Yes, the mirror gives out a DSLR, it requires additional thickness. But! 38 and 70mm is a big difference. 47 and 70 are not that big. And 63 and 70 are quite small. By shaping the look of the D5500, Nikon signaled to the market that the difference in size between compact DSLRs and high-end mirrorless cameras is minimal, and the difference in weight simply does not exist. That the differences are not so noticeable and critical.

At the same time, phase autofocus and an optical viewfinder remain in the asset of the DSLRs. And in the passive - larger and heavier optics. And yet - a plastic case. As for the quality of shooting - it is most likely on the same level. And this level is still called "what a middle-class DSLR is capable of." However, we will get to the test part after a while, but for now we will consider the “passport” Nikon specifications D5500.

Main characteristics
LensRemovable optics. Nikon F mount. Optics format - DX. Crop factor 1.5.
Matrix24 MP, APS-C, CMOS
Light sensitivityISO 100 - 25 600
autofocusPhase detection AF sensor Nikon Multi-CAM 4800DX, 39 focus points (including 9 cross type sensors). 1-, 9-, 21-, or 39-point dynamic AF, 3D tracking, auto-area AF.
ExposureExposure control 2016 pixel RGB sensor. Matrix metering: 3D color matrix metering II (with type G, E, and D lenses). Center-weighted metering: 75% of measurements in the 8 mm circle in the center of the frame. Spot metering: Metering in a 3.5 mm circle (about 2.5% of frame) centered on selected focus point.
ScreenTFT 3.2 inches, 1,036,800 dots, flip, swivel, touch. Coverage - 100%, viewing angle up to 170 degrees
ViewfinderOptical, field of view ≈95%, magnification 0.82x.
Image stabilizerNo
Shooting modesAuto, PASM, scene programs, artistic effects.
Burst shootingUp to 5 frames per second.
Gate1/4000 to 30 seconds in 1/3 or 1/2 EV increments, X-sync = 200 s. Exposure by hand, long exposure.
File FormatJPEG (EXIF ver 2.30), RAW (12 or 14 bit), RAW + JPEG.
VideoFull HD 1920 × 1080 60p in MOV(H.264/MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding) format.
Power supplyLi-ion battery EN-EL14a (Approx. 820 shots, CIPA rating).
MemorySD / SDHC / SDXC memory cards.
Dimensions, weight124 x 97 x 70 mm; 470 g (including the weight of the battery and memory card)
additional characteristics
Built-in flashEat. Guide number ≈12.
ConnectorsUSB 2.0; HDMI output (HDMI type C connector); video output NTSC, PAL; audio input (stereo mini-jack 3.5 mm); support for optional ME-1 stereo microphone.
"Hot Shoe"Eat
AF illuminatorEat
BracketingBy exposure, by D-Lighting, by white balance.
GPS / WiFiOption / built-in module
Self-timer2 s, 5 s, 10 s, 20 s (1 to 9 exposures).
Shooting formats3:2

After a careful study of the passport characteristics, the following “accounting” emerges:

  • The price difference between Nikon D5500 and D5300 is about 16,000 rubles.
  • The total reduction in size is 8 mm.
  • Weight reduction - 60 grams.
  • Battery life increased by 220 frames (according to the CIPA standard).
  • Nikon D5500 lost the GPS module, but acquired a touch screen.
Here, of course, we must take into account that the price of the D5300 is partly determined by the old stocks made before the fall of the ruble. And in general, the balance converges. And there is still hope that the quality of the picture has been improved. We'll check it out soon.

Construction, design, management

Nikon D5500 looks much sleeker than its predecessor. And it's not just about reducing weight and size. If a manufacturer wants to emphasize the compactness of a camera, its designers are always looking for solutions that emphasize compactness. Something like the old secret of tailors - "a dress with stripes from top to bottom makes the figure more slender." And, as a rule, the design problem is solved brilliantly. Nikon D5500 is sharpened under the image of "mirror-less mirror". It reads the traditional features of Nikon, but with them new, "mirrorless".

Even from this angle, you can see how thin the D5500 case is. This provides a very noticeable protrusion of the handle and a very comfortable grip.

By the nature of the coating, you can’t immediately say that the camera body is plastic. In general, Nikon manages to make even inexpensive cameras quite solid. And in the case of the D5500 shape, the design elements emphasize that the camera is not cheap.

On the front of the handle, we see a barely noticeable infrared remote control sensor. Behind the handle is the “peephole” of the AF illumination.

And we will not find the aperture repeater to the left of the lens. The creators of the D5XXX series decided to do without it. It's a pity, the absence of a repeater is a sign of "budget", and the D5500 can hardly be called a budget one.

To the right of the lens, we see three useful buttons (not counting the main one - the lens release button). The top ejects the built-in flash and adjusts the flash output (using the control wheel, of course).

A little lower is the multifunctional Fn-button. And at the bottom - the switch button "continuous shooting / timer / remote control".

Let's move on to connectors. Here everything is modest and to the point. The upper one is for connected accessories, in particular, for a wired remote control.
Next - the main feature of the Nikon D5XXX series: a folding swivel screen. In terms of resolution and dimensions, the screen is the same as that of the D5300 - RGB, 720 × 480 pixels, 3.2 inches.

But the D5500 has a touch screen. This has many advantages, making focus point selection and spy shooting easier. Yes, and in Play mode, scrolling and zooming in on pictures with your fingers is very convenient.

The rear panel of the D5500 hasn't changed much compared to the D5300. The only thing new is the Info button, which changes the set of information on the screen during shooting and playback. This button has moved from the top bar.

And one more hidden element is the “eye indicator”. The display automatically turns off when the eye (or other body) approaches the viewfinder.

A little explanation (just in case). The leftmost element (top) is another infrared remote control sensor. And the "i" button calls up the "quick" setup menu.

The micro-HDMI connector is located on the right side. Below it is a slot for a memory card.

Pay attention to the shape of the control wheel - this is a typical "mirrorless" design (traditional for DSLRs - a gear wheel protruding from the body). And the notch on the mode dial has become less noticeable.

This view also shows well that the D5500 is thin. Perhaps the size of the D5500 can be called optimal for a mid-level camera - it allows you to make the controls convenient, not "shrink". It provides a very comfortable grip. At the same time, the camera turns out to be noticeably smaller and lighter than the Midsize SLR, like Canon EOS 70D or Nikon D7200.
The shooting mode dial provides options for: Auto, Auto No Flash, EFFECTS (artistic effects), PASM (classic, creative modes), and SCENE (story scenes).

The very convenient lever for switching between normal mode and Live View remains the same as in the D5300.

Pay attention to the thickness profile of the camera, you can clearly see how much the handle protrudes.

Another one strong point D5500 - high battery life. According to the CIPA standard, the camera can take 800 frames per charge. The D5300 has a much lower margin - about 620 frames.


With all the desire to at least find fault with something, it is very difficult to do. Nikon's design remained impeccable, the new elements fit perfectly into the classics. Working with the camera is very convenient. It fits perfectly in both large and child's hands. Checked. Let's see if there are any new items in the camera menu?


Before moving on to the tests, you can summarize the preliminary results:

  • Nikon D5500 is very different from its predecessor.
  • The camera has not only become smaller and lighter, it has changed the design and become more modern. It began to look like not only a DSLR, but also a mirrorless one. The changes have been beneficial. We had the D5300 not so long ago, it is convenient to use, but the D5500 is more convenient.
  • Quite a useful acquisition of the D5500 is the touch screen. It greatly expands the possibilities of control.
  • I am very pleased with the battery life that has grown to 800 frames.
  • The camera menu has been redesigned to better side. In particular, the "Recent Settings" section and figurative tips when choosing shooting options are pleasing.

And you can only regret about the “missing” GPS module. If you really need it, you will have to think. The option module is, of course, not as convenient as the built-in one. But look at the specs of competing cameras: every GPS has become an option. Most likely, the fashion has passed, and the ability to track the coordinates of the shooting has become of little demand.

Nikon D5500 and competitors
Canon
EOS750D
Canon
EOS70D
Nikon
D5500
Nikon
D7100
Pentax
K-S2
Sony Alpha
ILCA-77M2
Matrix24MP APS-C
CMOS
20MP APS-C
CMOS
24MP APS-C
CMOS
24MP APS-C
CMOS
20MP APS-C
CMOS
24MP APS-C
CMOS
autofocus19 points
(19 crosses)
19 points
(19 crosses)
39 points
(9 cross)
51 points
(15 crosses)
11 points
(9 cross)
79 points
metering7560-px.
RGB+IR
63 RGB zones2016-pix. RGB2016-pix. RGB77 RGB zones1200 RGB zones
Sensitivity 100 - 12 800
up to 25 600 *
100 - 12 800
up to 25 600 *
100 - 25 600 100 - 6400
up to 25 600 *
100 - 51 200 50 - 51 200
LCD screen3.0″ RGB
1 040 000
tilting, swivel, touch
3.0″ RGB
1 040 000
tilting, swivel, touch
3.2″ RGB
1 036 800
tilting, swivel, touch
3.2″ RGBW
1 228 800
fixed
3.0″ RGB
921 000
tilting, swivel
3.0″ RGBW
1 228 800
tilting, swivel
Viewfinder≈95%
0.82x
≈98%
0.95x
≈95%
0.82x
≈100%
0.94x
≈100%
0.95x
TFT 2 359 296
≈100% 1.09x
Gate30–1/4000 s
X-sync 1/200 s
30–1/8000 s
X-sync 1/250 s
30–1/4000 s
X-sync 1/200 s
30–1/8000 s
X-sync 1/250 s
30–1/6000 s
X-sync 1/180 s
30–1/8000 s
X-sync 1/250 s
StabilizerNoNoNoNoopticoptic
Burst shooting≈5 fps≈7 fps≈5 fps≈6 fps≈5.5 fps≈12 fps
WiFi / USB / GPSbuilt-in
USB 2.0
option
built-in
USB 2.0
option
built-in
USB 2.0
option
option
USB 2.0
option
built-in
USB 2.0
option
built-in
USB 2.0
option
Video1920×1080
30p
1920×1080
30p
1920×1080
60p
1920×1080
60i
1920×1080
30p
1920×1080
60p
Battery reserve 440 frames920 frames820 frames950 frames410 frames480 frames
Dimensions, weight132×101×78
555 g
139×104×79
755 g
124×97×70
470 g
136×107×76
765 g
123×91×73
678 g
143×104×81
726 g
Estimated price Orient.
RUB 50,000
T-10407893 T-11891121 T-9279079 T-12298598 T-10813801

* - in extended mode.

Image Quality - Noise

So, the Nikon D5500 and D5300 have many differences, but the processor is the same and the matrix, apparently, is the same. The question that arose already at the first acquaintance with the D5500 - due to what was it possible to raise the upper limit of sensitivity?

However, instead of stupid questions, we'd better get a sensible answer right now, since there is an opportunity to compare test shots of the D5300 and D5500.

Nikon D5300
RAW, bright scene
Nikon D5500
RAW, bright scene
ISO
100
ISO
800
ISO
1600
ISO
3200
ISO
6400
ISO
10 000
ISO
12 800

I think the given "clippings" answer exactly - the D5500 makes less noise than the D5300. How was this achieved, maybe the matrix is ​​still different? The question is interesting, but not the most important. The main thing is that even at ISO 12,800 small characters remain well readable, and at ISO 1600 the picture is almost clean. Even ISO 3200 can be considered working sensitivity.

However, let's look at other "clippings". The gray map gives a lot of information, but for a complete picture, it is desirable to consider different fragments of the stand, taken in the light, in the semi-darkness, with and without noise reduction turned on.

Nikon D5500
noise test
fragments of pictures of the test bench
RAW
filter off.
bright scene
JPG
filter included.
bright scene
RAW
filter off.
dark scene
JPG
filter included.
dark scene
Clicking on each fragment will open a window where it will be presented in 6 options:
- in the top row with a sensitivity of 100 - 400 - 800 ISO
- in the bottom row with a sensitivity of 1600 - 3200 - 6400 ISO units

Quite often they ask me: “But this camera, what is its working sensitivity? How much can you raise the ISO? And every time I either pronounce the average figure so that the person receives a guideline. Or I start a long story that in different conditions noise accumulates and looks different. That a lot depends on the amount of light - that is, on the shutter speed, which can be short or long, a long one accumulates noise much more successfully than a short one. Much depends on the texture of the image, some scenes are even difficult to tolerate ISO 800, and some hold up well at ISO 6400 and above. And then there are post-processing and plugins. That some masters do not recognize the word "noises" at all ...


Resolution graphs can serve as some guide - the dependence of resolution on sensitivity in a light scene and in a dark one. In the center of the frame and on the edge, in RAW and JPG images. If we take the quality threshold at the level of 0.6 lines per pixel, the working sensitivity of the Nikon D5500 in bright scenes lies in the range of 3200 - 6400 ISO units. And in dark scenes - within 800 - 1600 units. And this is confirmed by test shots, this is confirmed by the pictures in the Gallery. By the way, test shots were taken at almost all ISO values ​​from lower to upper and you can download them in the "" block.

Optics - Nikon 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED DX VR Nikkor


We slightly changed the format of testing optics. Firstly, we "crammed" the resolution and "chromaticity" into one graph. And although these are fundamentally different characteristics, they are both measured in percentages. Resolution - as a percentage of the theoretically possible, 1 line per pixel. Chromatic aberrations are calculated by our test program as the percentage of tinted pixels within a special target, a "trap" for chromatic aberrations.

Next format change: if the camera can shoot in RAW, we don't use JPG (in-camera JPG always reduces resolution). And besides, chromatic aberrations in JPGs are sometimes corrected without notifying the photographer. Which is good in itself, but corrected aberrations are already a characteristic of the camera, not the lens.

In any case, the main characteristics that we shoot in the lens test are the resolution in the center and at the edge of the frame. "Geometry" and "chromatics" can be corrected, sometimes quite successfully, with zero consequences. And not only in post-processing - now many cameras are equipped with the appropriate correctors. But the resolution cannot be corrected. The picture can be "sharped", but that's another story.

EGF = 27 mm


First about geometry. At short focus, we see a very noticeable "vertical barrel" with distortion D = -3.58 vertically and D = -0.84 horizontally. This is neither good nor bad, at a wide angle the “barrel” is always present, and its geometry does not speak of the technical capabilities of the manufacturer, but of its intentional decision to somehow distort the space. In this case, Nikon engineers decided to introduce strong negative distortion vertically and almost imperceptible horizontally - a universal solution that is well suited for landscapes and relatively harmless for group portraits.

PermissionChromatic aberration
frame centerFrame edgeframe centerFrame edge
On all screenshots: top row: f/3.5 - f/5.6 - f/9, bottom row: f/11 - f/15 - f/22

A brief summary of the operation of Nikon 18-105mm at the minimum "focus", EGF = 27 mm:

  • The level of chromatic aberration is noticeable at the edge of the frame, but not too great, does not exceed 7%.
  • The resolution both in the center of the frame and at the edge is kept high and very high level. At a wide aperture, the resolution in the center does not fall below 0.6 lines per pixel. On a narrow - below 0.5. The resolution at the edge of the frame lags behind the center by an average of 0.1 lines per pixel.

EGF = 52 mm


At a focal length of 50 mm, we observe a noticeable "cushion" - vertically more noticeable (about 2), horizontally less noticeable (about 1). Here it is hardly possible to talk about the artistic effect introduced by distortion, at the “portrait distance” the closer the distortion is to zero, the better. But for an inexpensive lens, this is a good result.

PermissionChromatic aberration
frame centerFrame edgeframe centerFrame edge
On all screenshots: top row: f/4.5 - f/7.1 - f/11, bottom row: f/14 - f/22 - f/29

A brief summary of the Nikon 18-105mm at 52mm "focus":

  • Resolution both in the center of the frame and at the edge continues to be high and very high. At the widest, even at the edge of the frame is at 0.65 lines per pixel. And only at apertures already f / 22 falls below the 0.5 line. But this is the inevitable influence of diffraction, the inevitable "blurring of a too narrow hole."
  • The level of chromatic aberration at 50 mm is not encouraging. “Chromatics” is noticeable even in the center of the frame - at a wide aperture it stays at 5%, but gradually goes to zero. And at the edge of the frame, on the contrary, as the aperture closes, it grows from 7 to 13 percent. It's a lot!

EGF = 93 mm


At a focal length of 93 mm, the "pillow" becomes more noticeable vertically - about 2.5, horizontally remains weakly expressed. Resolution remains high up to f/20, and then naturally drops to 0.4 lines per pixel at the narrowest f/36.

PermissionChromatic aberration
frame centerFrame edgeframe centerFrame edge
On all screenshots: top row: f/5.3 - f/8 - f/13, bottom row: f/16 - f/25 - f/36

A brief summary of the Nikon 18-105mm at 93mm "focus":

  • Acceptable geometric distortion.
  • Resolution remains high at wide apertures, dropping noticeably only after closing down to f/20.
  • The level of chromatic aberration continues to be noticeable in the center of the frame (about 3%) and very high at the edge (from 9 to 14%).

EGF = 157.5 mm


At a long focus (EGF = 157.5 mm), the geometric distortions are slightly reduced, but essentially remain the same - we observe a “cushion” with a vertical distortion greater than 2.

PermissionChromatic aberration
frame centerFrame edgeframe centerFrame edge
On all screenshots: top row: f/5.6 - f/7.1 - f/11, bottom row: f/14 - f/22 - f/36

A brief summary of the Nikon 18-105mm at 157mm "focus":

  • Geometric distortion remains at an acceptable level, and resolution is high at wide apertures and does not fall below 0.6 lines per pixel until the aperture is reduced to f / 20 - f / 22.
  • And the level of chromatic aberration continues to be very high. In the center of the frame, as the aperture closes, it grows from 5 to 10 percent, at the edge - from 10 to 20. That is, we observe a very strong “chromaticity”.

Stabilizer

The stabilizer testing technique is described in detail in the Nikon D5300 article. In our estimation, the Nikon 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED DX VR Nikkor is effective at 1/4 second. This gives the photographer approximately 3.7 extra stops.

Based on the CIPA standard, the manufacturer estimated the effectiveness of the stabilizer a little more modestly: “The vibration reduction system provides enhanced handheld shooting capabilities and allows you to use shutter speeds 3.5 stops slower than usual.” In any case, our test confirms the high efficiency of the stabilizer. If, in addition to its capabilities, you use stabilization techniques when shooting (holding your breath, resting your elbows on your body, etc.), you can definitely get 4 additional steps.

So, let's sum up the results of testing the lens. Pros Nikon 18-105mm:

  • decent focusing accuracy and speed (according to the results of testing the autofocus of the D5500, according to the results of shooting the Gallery);
  • high level of resolution throughout the range of focal lengths, at all apertures wider than f / 20;
  • acceptable, low level of geometric distortion;
  • high efficiency stabilizer;
  • very reasonable, low price.

Cons Nikon 18-105mm:

  • a very noticeable level of chromatic aberration, not only at the edge of the frame, but also in the center;
  • frame blur, bokeh quality - average (according to the results of shooting for the Gallery).

But in general, the Nikon 18-105mm is a very good lens, one of the best in terms of quality / price. And the Nikon D5500 fits no worse than the official 18-55mm kit. Although if you care about "chromaticity" and the quality of background blur, it makes sense to look for a more expensive lens that will more closely match the capabilities of the Nikon D5500.

Features Nikon D5500

autofocus

I detailed our new methodology for evaluating autofocus speed and accuracy in the Canon 7D Mark II article. But now I would like to voice a few more points, since quite reasonable doubts and suggestions were expressed on the forum:

  1. Again, the technique is still crude. Therefore, its results should not be taken as a final diagnosis. When we accumulate measurements for many cameras, it will be possible to draw a conclusion about the sanity (adequacy) of the methodology or, on the contrary, about its insanity. In the meantime, we are accumulating observations and rejoice that it is a little crooked, with assumptions, without 100% theoretical justification, but the technique works, shows results similar to the truth. And this is not so little to start.
  2. There was a comment on the forum: “You are shooting a series, but there is one trick here - AF is not stupid and for subsequent frames it uses the data received from the first frame, i.e. focus can work faster".
    Answer: the fact is that we are not shooting a series, but three frames in frame-by-frame mode. Moreover, each frame is removed only after the "peep" of autofocus. I do not think that in single-frame AF remembers the data of the previous shooting.
  3. Another valuable note on the forum: “There are too many “manual” actions in your methodology, which immediately cuts the accuracy (or adequacy) of numerical measurements. Maybe we should introduce an element of automation into the process?
    Answer: yes, there are quite a lot of manual actions in the methodology, it was originally set as practical task for the photographer and the camera: “Get closer to the subject, take as many clear shots as possible. Shooting conditions: insufficient lighting, the object stands out faintly against a dark gray background.

Agree, for a person this is a simple task: his actions are to calmly take three single frames, and each frame is taken only after the “beep” of autofocus. Then take a step (not fast, not slow, normal) and repeat three frames...

There is no need to be experienced or qualified or any other special photographer. The task of high-speed shooting is not set here, just do not waste time: step, half-press the “shutter” button so that the camera catches focus, immediately after the AF signal - full press.

Very little depends on the person here, all the complexity of shooting is assigned to the camera. Therefore, an almost constant value is formed in the measurements - the actions of the photographer. And the variable is the actions of the camera, especially noticeable in Live View mode, when the process stretches for 2 minutes, and it is by no means a person who is to blame for the delay.

If my words do not sound convincing enough - . See in the sound editor how the actions of the photographer are distributed and how the actions of the camera are distributed. Of course, there may be delays in the actions of the photographer and, on the contrary, accelerations. But they average out while the photographer takes 30 shots. As far as I managed to feel the technique, now its layout is something like this:

  • Let's say we measured 30 seconds - the time it takes to shoot 30 frames and 9 steps.
  • Of these, 10 seconds are human actions (take 9 steps, move your finger 30 times, wait for a signal, move your finger again);
  • But 20 seconds is all that is connected with the camera, this time depends on the ability of the camera in the semi-darkness to find a low-contrast object in the center of the frame.
  • When this experience is repeated, we get a total spread of plus or minus 1.5 seconds. Human actions are imperfect, but when averaging, plus falls on minus many times, and the total error is not so great. According to our estimates (the estimates are not taken from the ceiling, this is an analysis of the timing of tests and rehearsals) - out of 10 seconds that fall on human actions, the error is 1 second, plus or minus 0.5 seconds.
  • But the camera's actions are less stable - everyone who has worked with autofocus in the semi-darkness knows this well. In our scenario, the time it takes the camera to take 30 shots with phase-detection AF is 20 seconds plus or minus 1 second. The error of the camera's actions turns out to be twice as large as the error of the human actions.
  • So, we have 30 seconds - the duration of the whole process. The maximum deviation is 1.5 seconds. This is 5% plus or 5% minus, just 3 seconds. That is, according to our estimates, the maximum error in measuring the phase autofocus speed does not exceed 10%. It's not that bad. And in principle, you can not even figure out who is to blame - the person or the camera. But the share of the camera accounts for 65-70 percent of the error, and the share of the person - 30-35 percent.
  • When measuring the speed of contrast autofocus, when it takes about 120 seconds to take 30 shots, our overall error is reduced by a factor of 4 - it becomes about 2.5 percent. And then human actions account for less than 1 percent. So for the time being, we do not see the need to make a laboratory robot that will replace the photographer and increase the accuracy of measurements by 3.5 percent maximum.

So far, the weakest point of the technique is its limitations. The technique makes it possible to evaluate the speed and accuracy of a low-dynamic object (this is exactly what a stationary target is in relation to a moving photographer with a camera). So far, there is no talk of any tracking focus. We are not even talking about the ability to catch an object that is not in the center of the frame. But we must first build a foundation in order to somehow "catch" the capabilities of autofocus, and then build a building on this foundation.


Another potentially weak point of the technique is the possibility of a "hut", because the photographer does not stand still, moves, and the camera can involuntarily jerk. Protection from the "hut" is incorporated in the technique - we work at a shutter speed of 1/100 second at a focal length of 50 mm. And in the rhythm that we have developed, when the spread of time for the entire process does not exceed 2-3 seconds, the “hut” is extremely rare, about 1 frame per 100.

Moreover, which is nice, visually it differs from inaccurate focus. Examples of "hut" and "bad focus" are shown in the illustration. These are fairly dark shots as the autofocus is being tested in low light, but you can make them out. We usually turn off the blurry frame from the sample, give it an average value. Or, if it is possible to determine the degree of focus by eye, we determine it by eye.

However, enough saying, it's time to move on to the results. The table contains points that the camera can score in 30 frames (maximum - 300 points). And the time it took her and the photographer to take 30 shots. For example, in the first data cell Nikon D5500 is 250 points / 36 seconds.


So far, there are only three cameras in our database, but we already have something to compare with. As you can see, the Nikon D5500's phase detection autofocus is slightly slower than the AF of the Canon EOS 7D and Canon EOS 7D Mark II. The job that took them 24-25 seconds Nikon D5500 performs in 36 seconds. And in very low light, he has to work for 40 seconds. I think this is the normal AF speed of a mid-range DSLR. And both modifications of the Canon 7D are above average.

As for the Nikon D5500 contrast autofocus, it works about as accurately and slowly as the Canon 7D AF. It takes about 2 minutes to take a series of 30 shots. But the focusing accuracy is high - about 275 points out of 300 possible.

Hybrid AF Canon EOS 7D Mark II against this background looks like a champion. It is slightly more accurate and twice as fast.

In order not to get confused in the numbers, we introduced the concept of a rating, separately for phase AF, separately for contrast or hybrid. Now it seems reasonable to us to simply sum up the points scored and divide them by the seconds spent. It is quite possible that after some time we will consider it reasonable to change the formula, but for now:

Burst speed

With the measurement of burst speed, everything is much simpler. Nikon D5000, as is customary with Nikon DSLRs, shoots hundreds of frames. After the first hundred, the camera is ready to “shoot” another hundred, you just have to let go and press the shutter button again. The Nikon D5000 has two speed modes: L (continuous slow) and H (continuous fast). Silent shooting is possible only in single-frame mode.


When shooting RAW in low-speed mode, short fades occur from time to time in the shooting (pumping from the buffer to the card). But the average is 2.82 fps.


Tested with a fast SanDisk Extrime Pro 16 GB card (95 MB/s). Phonograms of test recordings can be downloaded in the "" section. Just in case, I remind you that we always set JPG and RAW to maximum quality when checking the shooting speed.

Shooting at high sensitivity

In the Noise test, we limited ourselves to the upper sensitivity of ISO 12 800, since we compared pictures of the Nikon D5500 and D5300, and for the latter, ISO 12 800 is the upper limit of the usual, not extended range. Believe me, here, at higher ISOs, the Nikon D5500 is noticeably ahead of the D5300. By the way, you can check this if you download test samples.

Canon EOS 7D Mark II
RAW, bright scene
Nikon D5500
RAW, bright scene
ISO
16 000
ISO
25 600

In order not to “substitute” a completely worthy D5300, we decided to compare the Nikon D5500 with one of the competing cameras at the highest ISO values. But it turned out that the upper limit of competitors is lower than that of the D5500. Here only Pentax K-S2 and Sony Alpha ILCA-77M2 are not inferior to it, but we have not tested these cameras yet. And in the end, we chose the Canon EOS 7D Mark II as a competitor. We decided to try. We tried. And we made sure that against the background of a very cool 7D Mark II, the heroine of our test looks very worthy.

Video

We do not test the video, but try it. Although, if you delve into dictionaries, it's the same thing. The settings are automatic. Scene with objects at different distances. Frame rate - 50 fps, appreciate the smoothness of movements.


From time to time, foreign objects flicker in front of the camera (for the first time in my life I was grateful to people who “stick” in front of the lens). These objects knock out focus and exposure for a split second, but the Nikon D5500 restores the picture very quickly. You can see how autofocus rushes about in search of the main object, how it quickly rebuilds and tries to guide the main object. But the task for automation is unsolvable, if you want to “lead” any one couple at ballroom dancing competitions, only manual focus will save you.

In short, there are no complaints about the video at the amateur level. The reaction of the camera is fast, 50 fps are worked out honestly.

Results

It's time to sum up, a lot has been said, let's try to highlight the main thing.

Pros Nikon D5500:

  • A very decent picture - both photo and video.
  • Great design, lightweight and compact.
  • Swivel, tilt and in addition touch screen - in sum, high functionality for a mid-range DSLR.
  • Noticeably lower noise at high sensitivity than its predecessor D5300.
  • High battery life for its class.
  • In general, a very successful combination of features.

Cons Nikon D5500:

  • If we continue the comparison with the D5300, then the minus is the “loss” of the GPS module, for someone this is important.
  • Some familiar features of mid-level DSLRs are truncated (for example, there is no exposure simulator in Live View).

In the minuses, I did not note the rather high price of the Nikon D5500, because in the end (after comparing with the capabilities of competitors) I have to agree that the camera is worth the money. Perhaps it can be called the ideal camera for beginners (if they can afford the D5500). And it can also be called a very worthy second camera for enthusiasts and pros. Moreover, this is the case when the second camera has additional features that the first does not have - thanks to its very functional screen.

As for the reporting abilities of the Nikon D5500, they are enough for the “street”, meetings, corporate events, but the camera is not fast enough to shoot competitions. She is too versatile to be a champion in any one area.

Gallery

This time, the gallery has collected shots taken at sensitivity from ISO 100 to 4500. Special comments on the pictures are not needed: Nikon D5500 gives a well-exposed, solid picture with high detail. But with highly professional characteristics (remarkably subtle halftone transitions, amazing photorealistic hues, amazing dynamic range), the camera does not differ. We have already said that the Nikon D5500 is an excellent all-rounder that is capable of consistently delivering first-rate shots. Well, the highest grade is different cameras and completely different prices.


Gallery
VideoNikon D5500, video 76 seconds, 1920× [email protected], 204 MB
Tests
"Autofocus"
"Burst Shooting"
Nikon D5500, Autofocus test audios, 1.63 MB
Nikon D5500, Burst test audios, 1.63 MB
Gallery

During the week of testing the Nikon D5500, I shot a lot of scenes on it. I caught a variety of shots in the lens, and in all situations the camera worked perfectly. Whether shooting genre scenes or street scenes in low light, I could rely on her confident performance. I boldly raised the ISO to values ​​​​of the order of 1600 units, without thinking about the loss of detail or noise. It turned out to use the Nikon D5500 as a reportage camera. Here, its autofocus, along with the speed of continuous shooting, showed decent speed and accuracy. Separately, I will mention the high shutter resource, which the manufacturer indicates in the specifications. The Nikon D5500 has 100,000 guaranteed operations, which, believe me, is quite a lot. For comparison, with my own camera, which I bought about four years ago, I took a little over 50,000 pictures. The developers also turned out to be very successful with a new display. In Nikon DSLRs, the touch screen was used for the first time, and I can say for sure that the pancake did not come out lumpy. The camera responds very quickly to touch, and menu navigation has become faster and easier. The only thing that upset me a little is the lack of a GPS module in the new model. Let me remind you that he was in the Nikon D5300. On the other hand, advanced amateur photographers can always purchase an external module. For those who do not need it, the camera will cost a little less in the end.