Nikon D90 Review | 108 Data compared

The DPReview analysis positions the Nikon D90 as a capable, prosumer DSLR featuring a 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor with excellent high-ISO performance, a 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD, and an integrated autofocus motor for older lenses. Key pros include 4.5 fps burst shooting, extensive in-camera adjustments, and a bright optical viewfinder. Conversely, the review notes the pioneering 720p video mode is limited by sluggish contrast-detect AF, mono audio, and no external mic input. Additionally, the D90 often produces soft default JPEG images, is prone to blowing highlights via its matrix metering, and has a 100-shot limit for continuous shooting.

According to Ken Rockwell, the Nikon D90 is a high-utility, cost-effective DX-format DSLR that offers image quality and performance comparable to higher-end models like the D300. Key advantages include a large, high-resolution LCD, excellent speed, the introduction of modern Picture Controls, and being the first Nikon DSLR with movie recording. However, the review notes the D90's lightweight plastic construction lacks the rugged, weather-sealed build of professional cameras. Additionally, the camera is designed primarily for stills rather than video, with menu limitations compared to higher-end models.

The Nikon D90 is a mid-range, 12.3-megapixel digital SLR camera that succeeds the D80 and stands out for introducing high-definition 720p video recording at 24 frames per second. It delivers exceptional still image quality with a full feature set, showcasing notable upgrades such as a bright 3-inch LCD screen, a sensor-cleaning mechanism to reduce dust, and an improved continuous autofocus that tracks moving objects. Photographers will highly appreciate its outstanding low-light capabilities, as its ISO sensitivity spans from 200 to 3200 (expandable from 100 to 6400) and produces remarkably clean, noise-free images at higher sensitivities. Furthermore, its video mode allows filmmakers to utilize Nikon's vast lens system to achieve cinematic effects and precise, shallow depth-of-field control that standard camcorders cannot replicate. However, the camera's video functionality comes with significant limitations that require manual workarounds. A major con is the lack of continuous autofocus in video mode—inherent to the slow contrast-detect system used during Live View—which forces shooters to rely on manual focus adjustments. Audio recording is heavily compromised because the camera lacks an external microphone jack, causing the built-in mic...

The Nikon D90 is a historic digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera that raised the benchmark for digital photography upon its release in August 2008. Tested in the overcast and foggy conditions of Whidbey Island, Washington, the camera was reviewed alongside a Nikkor 18-105mm DX image-stabilised kit lens. The reviewer, an experienced photographer who traditionally uses Canon equipment, approached the evaluation neutrally to assess the real-world performance, usability, and breakthrough features of this mid-range DX-format camera body. Pros and Cons The review highlights several cutting-edge features for its time alongside standard operational tools: Pros Video Capability: It is celebrated as the first-ever DSLR camera to record video. Display and Viewing: Features a large 3-inch LCD screen with a wide 170-degree viewing angle, supported by a Live View mode. Image Optimization: Includes Active-D Lighting Control for real-time tone correction in high-contrast environments and face-priority auto-focus for sharp portraits. Hardware Conveniences: Equipped with built-in Sensor Cleaning Technology and a dedicated GPS port for geotagging images at the moment of capture. ISO Flexibility: Provides a versatile ISO range spanning from 100 to 6400, manageable...

The Nikon D90 is a groundbreaking mid-range consumer DSLR celebrated as the world's first DSLR to feature HD video capability, capturing 720p Motion JPEG files at 24 FPS. Designed primarily as a high-quality stills camera with a 12.3 Megapixel sensor, it functions in a fully automatic mode when shooting video, dynamically automating exposure, ISO, and shutter speed based on its Live View feed. The primary advantages highlighted in the review are its optical versatility, allowing users to leverage Nikon’s massive lineup of lenses to achieve shallow depth of field, and its highly useful ergonomics for still photography, including a dedicated Live View button and a top panel LCD. However, the reviewer heavily critiques the D90's severe technical limitations when utilized as a traditional camcorder replacement. The video quality is surprisingly soft and "diffused" compared to rival consumer camcorders or the Canon 5D MKII, and it suffers from highly noticeable "Jellocam" rolling shutter artifacts during rapid motion. Major functional drawbacks include a total lack of video autofocus, no external microphone inputs for its low-quality mono audio recording, a hard 5-minute recording...

Overview and Standout Features The Nikon D90 is a prosumer-level 12.3-megapixel DSLR featuring a CMOS sensor, an EXPEED processor, and a high-resolution 3-inch LCD screen. It is highly regarded for its exceptional low-light capabilities, quick performance, and versatility, making it an excellent primary camera for enthusiasts or a reliable backup for professional bodies. Notably, it was the first SLR in the world to feature video capture—offering a 720p HD "D-Movie" mode—and includes advanced features like an automatic sensor dust cleaner, 3D Focus Tracking, and an intuitive user interface. Performance Breakdown: Pros and Cons Pros: Key strengths include superb overall image quality with clean, noise-free JPEGs up to ISO 400 (and highly usable letter-sized prints at ISO 1600), fast 4.5 frames-per-second continuous shooting, and robust in-camera corrective processing like automatic chromatic aberration and vignetting correction. It also offers handy in-camera retouching options and Picture Control modes to effortlessly modify contrast and saturation. Cons: On the downside, the camera's default settings produce slightly soft images, and the 3D Matrix meter frequently yields excessively bright highlights under harsh sunlight. Furthermore, its Live View...

The Radojuva review characterizes the Nikon D90 as a versatile, budget-friendly 12.3 MP DX-format DSLR featuring a built-in autofocus motor, an excellent 3.0-inch VGA screen, and pioneering 720p "D-Movie" capability. Key strengths include superb image quality and robust, ergonomic construction, though the camera is limited by 4.5 fps shooting, soft default JPEGs, and a 5-minute video recording limit without external mic input.

The Nikon D90 delivers exceptional image quality with high-quality, sharp JPEGs and a consistent metering system that excels at managing difficult dynamic ranges, notes What Digital Camera. Noise control is impressive, with ISO 3200 producing manageable texture rather than color distortion. What Digital Camera However, the review cites slow autofocus performance and visible chromatic aberration when using the kit lens as notable drawbacks. Furthermore, the highest noise reduction setting is discouraged as it compromises fine detail, though the camera remains a strong, high-value option. What Digital Camera

The Trusted Reviews analysis describes the Nikon D90 as a robust, capable, and well-built hobbyist DSLR that effectively bridges the gap for enthusiasts with its sturdy construction and comfortable grip. It highlights the camera's innovative 720p HD video mode, effective Live View, and versatile, easy-to-use automatic shooting modes. Conversely, the review notes the D90 is quite heavy compared to competitors like the Canon EOS 450D, weighing 1,080 grams with the kit lens, and features an off-center balance that pulls to the left. Other drawbacks include mediocre performance from the standard kit lens and poor implementation of the HDMI output.

The Digital Photography School review of the Nikon D90 emphasizes that this semi-pro DSLR caused a significant stir at launch due to its near-HD movie capture mode. It features a 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor capable of shooting sharp, detailed images up to 4288×2848 pixels, which is ideal for large 36×24 cm prints. The review highlights its advanced 11-point autofocus system, offering multiple focus tracking modes (static, dynamic, auto area, and 3D tracking) that help photographers handle various shooting conditions. Additionally, the camera is equipped with a large, vibrant 7.6 cm LCD Live View screen and a bright optical pentaprism finder that displays immediate operational status readouts. Several key pros and cons are detailed throughout the review evaluation: Pros Advanced Focus and Speed: Features an accurate 11-point AF system with 3D tracking alongside a fast continuous shooting speed of 4.5 fps. Dust Reduction: Employs an integrated system that shakes a cover filter over the sensor to fight off dust. Built-in Exposure Bracketing: Offers the flexibility to automatically shoot groups of three frames with variations up to two f-stops to guarantee proper...