Nikon D3x Review

The Nikon D3X EXPEED image processing engine with 14-bit A/D conversion and 16-bit image processing for superb tonal gradation. The Nikon D3x pixel characteristics provide a higher S/N ratio and wider dynamic range by securing a greater amount of light received by each pixel.

Our Rating (4/5)

Good: Double the megapixel count of the D3, rugged body and good ergonomics

Bad: No groundbreaking advances in basic shooting functionality, high price tag, ISO range smaller than D3, D3 could capture more frames per second in continuous shooting mode

WDC writes:
“The D3x is a stunning camera that pushes the boundaries of DSLR performance to a new level. It isn’t perfect, though, in particular, the omission of any form of built-in dust control is a major disappointment.”
Rating:
PDNGearGuide writes:
“Pros: The best all-around image quality yet in a studio-oriented digital SLR; fast overall speed from start-up to image capture; rugged, well-balanced camera build; reliable and speedy autofocus system even in low light; accurate exposure system. Cons: Very expensive; noise levels at ISO 3200 not quite as good as Canon 1Ds Mark III; no HD movie mode; shooting buffer is faster than the competition but takes at least 30 seconds to full clear; speeds drop to one frame per second in 14-bit RAW mode. “
Rating: N/A

Digital camera world sells the Nikon D3x Gerry Gibbs camerahouse in WA sell the Nikon D3x

LuminousLandscape reviews the Nikon D3x andwrites:
“ISO 1600 noise is quite well controlled, subjectively comparable to other cameras in its class, such as the 1Ds MKIII and A900. Below is a comparison of the D3x, 1Ds MKIII and A900 from DxOMark. It shows that even at between ISO 2000 and 3000 the noise difference between these three cameras is less than 3db, which is visible, but below the point where it is significant. “
Rating: N/A
GoodGearGuide reviews the Nikon D3x and writes:
“At twice the megapixel count of the earlier D3, the Nikon D3x is suitable for immensely detailed landscape and nature photography. However, there are not enough additional features to justify a price almost twice that of the Nikon D3.”
Rating:
Daveblackphotography.com reviews the Nikon D3x and writes:
” D3X is not for everyone, but make close examination of your business. If this 24.5 megapixel camera can set you apart from your competitors by raising the quality bar higher than others are willing to go, then perhaps the D3X IS the camera for you. “
Rating: N/A
PhotoReview.au reviews the Nikon D3x and writes:
“Image noise was barely visible in long exposures up to ISO 3200. Beyond that point, some luminance noise was evident. However, had no visible effect on image colours and overall apparent sharpness…”
Rating:
ByThom reviews the Nikon D3x and writes:
“the D3x produces excellent, best-of-class images, but that comes at a price that’s the highest of any existing DSLR. You’ll need really top notch lenses and technique to resolve that performance. Are you really ready for all that portends?”
Rating: N/A
PopPhoto reviews the Nikon D3x and writes:
“Is this excellent camera worth $8,000? We say yes. .. for pros and enthusiasts who are already invested in the Nikon system, and can afford the eight grand, this is one smart big-ticket purchase.”
Rating: N/A
Preview by AmateurPhotographer:
“lWe used for this test the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 zoom. Both camera and lens are excellent. Detail, smoothness and colors are as good as it gets in this class.”
Rating: N/A
Preview by AmateurPhotographer:
“low-compression JPEGs taken at ISO 100 at standard settings in a studio environment look stunning… “
Rating: N/A
Preview by CNET.asia:
“For those who want to have the most up-to-date gadget, the Canon will seem like a more obvious choice, but only if you don’t require a weather-sealed body, slightly faster frame rate and more resolution which the Nikon provides. “
Rating: N/A
Preview by TrustedReviews:
“The viewfinder is very bright and clear – essential for studio work – and focusing in low-light was quick and accurate,… overall, it feels superbly solid and totally up to the job. “
Rating: N/A
Preview video by WhatDigitalCamera:

Preview by ePhotozine:
“I think the removal of the main dust reduction feature was a bad idea .. The image quality is excellent and being able to crop really close in on the rear monitor and still see detail in the eyes and hair of the model was great. “
Rating: N/A
Preview by TechRadar:
“ergonomically there’s nothing different that we could see between the D3 – a model which dates back to 2007 – and the D3X. .. If you are a photographer who is looking for these requirements, the Nikon D3X could well be for you.”

The new top-of-the-range Nikon D3x. Building on the reliability, handling and durability of the award-winning D3, the D3X offers an imaging sensor with far higher resolution than its counterpart, breaking new ground in imaging quality. The all-new 24.5MP CMOS sensor makes the new camera eminently suitable for the broadest range of shooting situations, both in the studio and on location, and will be especially appreciated by uncompromising photographers in nature photography, studio work and fashion.

Images with the D3x X factor
The Nikon D3x reaps the benefits of the very latest developments in sensor design and image processing technology. Designed to produce files suitable to meet the demands of tomorrow’s commercial and stock requirements, the camera produces 50MB 14-bit NEF (Raw) files.

New EXPEED-based image processing
A new image processing system, based on Nikon’s comprehensive EXPEED digital image processing and specially optimized for the D3x provides superior image quality, faster processing speeds and lower power consumption. This advanced system achieves precise color reproduction for the broadest spectrum of hues, plus vivid saturation and smooth gradation, conveying colors as you see them, even with the slight changes in color tones you perceive. Furthermore, Nikon’s advanced noise processing function, which was designed to minimize noise occurrence, achieves this without interfering with other factors, including hue.

Intuitive control
The D3x shares the same ergonomics and handling as the D3, which have been designed to enable anyone to get to work quickly and efficiently. The bright, uncluttered viewfinder features 100% coverage and comprehensive illuminated displays, while the high-definition, 3-inch, 920,000-dot VGA TFT monitor enables outstanding playback quality for on-the-spot image assessment. The Nikon D3x magnesium body, which is sealed for moisture and dust resistance, also supports Nikon’s wireless system (the WT-4), HDMI output, offers a dual slot for CF cards and is compatible with the new GP-1 GPS unit.

Specifications:

General:
Model Number: D700
Camera Format:Pro SLR
Tripod Mount: Yes (Metal)
Weight: 38.6 oz
(1,095 g)
Weight With Batteries? Yes
Size: 5.8 x 4.8 x 3.0 in.
(147 x 123 x 77 mm)

Image Sensor:
Sensor Type: CMOS
Sensor Manufacturer: Sony
Total Megapixels: 12.9
Effective Megapixels: 12.1
Sensor Format: Nikon FX
Sensor Size (dia.): 1.70″
Focal Length Multiplier: 1.0
Color Filter Type: RGBG
Self-Cleaning: Yes
Sensor-shift Stabilized: No

Image Capture:
Image Resolution:
4256 x 2832 (12.1 MP, 3:2),
3184 x 2120 (6.8 MP, 3:2),
2128 x 1416 (3.0 MP, 3:2),
2784 x 1848 (5.1 MP, 3:2),
2080 x 1384 (2.9 MP, 3:2),
1392 x 920 (1.3 MP, Other)
Image File Format: JPEG (EXIF 2.21), RAW (NEF), 14 or 12-bit; TIFF

Video Capture:
Movie Mode: No
Movie Resolution: n/a
Movie Frame Rate: n/a
Movie Audio: n/a
Movie File Format: n/a

Auto Focus:
Auto Focus:  Yes
Auto Focus Type: 51-point TTL phase detection via Nikon Multi-CAM 3500FX with 15 cross-type and 36 line-type sensors
Face Detection:
Auto Focus Assist Light? Yes
Manual Focus: Yes

Optical Viewfinder:
Optical Viewfinder: Yes
Optical Viewfinder Type: SLR type; fixed eye-level pentaprism, 95% coverage, 0.72x mag., 18mm eyepoint, -3 to +1 diopter

Display:
LCD Viewfinder: Yes
LCD Size (inches): 3.0
LCD Resolution (pixels): 920,000
Articulating LCD: No
Max Playback Zoom: 27.0x

Exposure:
ISO Settings: 200 – 6400, plus down to 100 in Lo-1, up to 25,600 in Hi-2
Auto ISO Mode: Yes
White Balance Settings: Auto, seven manual modes can be preset with fine-tuning; color temperature setting, custom
Shutter Speed Range: 30 – 1/8000
Bulb Mode: Yes
Exposure Compensation:     +/- 5.0EV in 0.3EV steps
Metering Modes: 1005-pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II, Center-weighted, Spot (1.5%) centered on selected focus area
Program AE: Yes
Aperture Priority: Yes
Shutter Priority: Yes
Full Manual Exposure: Yes
Creative Exposure Modes: None
Self Timer: 2/5/10/20 seconds
Time Lapse: Yes

Flash:
Built-in Flash: Yes
Flash Modes: Front-curtain sync, Slow sync, Rear-curtain sync, Red-eye reduction, Red-eye reduction with slow sync; supports Advanced Wireless Lighting system
Flash Guide Number (ISO 100): 12 m / 39 ft.
Flash Range Description: Lens dependent
Max Flash Sync: 1/250
Flash Exp Compensation: -3.0EV in 1.0EV steps
Ext Flash Connection: ISO-type hot-shoe, PC Sync terminal

Image Storage:
Usable Memory Types: CF1
File System: FAT32
DCF Compliant: Yes

Connectivity:
Composite Video Out: Yes
NTSC/PAL Switchable: Yes
Video Usable as Viewfinder: Yes
HD Video Out: Yes
HD Video Connection: HDMI
Built-In Wi-fi:
Computer/Printer: USB 2.0 High Speed
PictBridge Compliant: Yes
DPOF Compliant: Yes
Remote Control: Yes
Remote Control Type: Optional wired
Other Connection: HDMI Out, DC Input, 10-pin Expansion Terminal (GPS and WT-4A compatible)

Power:
Battery Form Factor: Proprietary EN-EL3e
Usable Battery Types: Lithium Ion rechargeable or MB-D10 battery grip
Batteries Included: 1 x Proprietary EN-EL3e Lithium Ion rechargeable
Battery Charger Included: Yes
CIPA Rating: 1,000

Software:
Included Software: Nikon Software Suite CD-ROM