First Review of the Nikon D60
March 3, 2008: A site with which I am not familiar, PhotographyBlog, has the first full review I’ve seen of Nikon’s D60, their new entry-level DSLR. This is a camera we discussed extensively with Nikon in our interview, live from PMA, on show #83.
The review seems very detailed and accurate. Mark Goldstein gives the Nikon D60 a “highly recommended rating,”although he makes it clear that the camera isn’t exactly redefining the category:
Where the D40x was essentially a 10 megapixel version of the 6 megapixel D40, the new D60 is a very slightly improved version of the D40x. The D60 retains the same core competencies - 10 megapixels, 3 point AF, 3D Colour Matrix Metering II, 3fps burst mode - whilst adding a small number of new features that are nice-to-haves, rather than being essential
What Mark does love is the new kit lens, that features Nikon’s image stabilization techlnology, which Nikon calls VR.
The single most important new addition is the availability of the new 18-55mm VR lens, which greatly extends the low-light capabilities of the D60. In kit form with this lens, the D60 isn’t a whole lot more expensive than with the standard 18-55mm lens, so I’d strongly advise every prospective new D60 owner to choose the VR option.
Michael’s recommendation: There’s no need for current D40 owners to rush out and buy a D60- the differences are negligable. But if you’re looking for a first DSLR, he really likes the D60, particularly with that new image stabilized lens.
I will point out that Canon’s newests DSLR, their entry-level XSi, also comes with an image stabilized lens in the same range as the Nikons, as do the Panasonic DSLRs. Other manufacturers, such as Sony, Pentax, and Olympus build the image stabilization right into their cameras’ bodies, which eliminates the need to buy more expensive image stabilized lenses.
It’s a tough market out there.
Scott
March 4th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
Hi Scott and Michael,
I just wanted to point out that although Panasonic’s dSLR are compliant with the Olympus’ Four-Third standard, their bodies DO NOT have built-in IS. They instead rely on the IS in their very high-end Leica lenses.
March 4th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
Thanks very much for the link Scott.
March 4th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
Thanks for the comment, Neyuttad. Actually, you are right that the Panasonic doesn’t include body-based IS, but the kit lens, which, as you say, is a very nice Leica, does have it. I have updated the post with your correction. Thanks!