The Nikon D5500 is a DX-format digital SLR camera released on the 5th of January, 2015. It is commonly referred to as the world’s smallest, lightest, and slimmest entry-level digital SRL camera. It is the first Nikon DSLR model with a touchscreen articulating LCD monitor that supports intuitive touch controls and features an in-built wireless (wifi) function.
The D5500 offers superior image quality and rich reproduction capability due to its 24.2-million pixels, a unique Nikon Dx-Format CMOS image sensor, and the EXPEED 4 image processor. Furthermore, it offers a high ISO sensitivity (100-25600) for stunning images, even when clicking in dimly lit scenes. It also features improved special mode effects, with the addition of Vivid, Pop, and Photo illustration options.
Although Nikon replaced the D5500 in late 2016 with the D5600, it is still part of the most affordable and suitable DSLR entry-level camera you can buy for about $700 on the market. However, we recommend the D5600 because it offers more advanced features and controls and goes for a similar price on the market. Nonetheless, the Nikon D5500 is a good choice. Its DX image sensor is much larger than what you’ll find in most cameras (although it doesn’t quite match the full-frame image sensors found in pro DSLRs). The image quality of this large image sensor would meet your expectations because it can deliver a sharp, well-exposed image.
The D5500 might be old but it still boasts some features found in higher models. Let us look at its key features, body build, and other components.
Pros |
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Built-in wifi function |
Articulating LCD screen |
Impressive video and picture qualities |
Cons |
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No headphone jack |
Complicated Menu |
From ISO 3200, noise becomes noticeable. |
Price: $700. Buy from Amazon.
Primary Features
24.2MP Nikon DX-Format Sensor, EXPEED 4 Processor, And High ISO Sensitivity
Unlike one of Nikon’s modern models, the D5, the D5500 features an impressive 24.2MP CMOS image sensor that helps the camera to deliver quality prints. It also offers the EXPEED 4 image processor, which improves the camera’s overall speed performance.
Note: Modern Nikon models, like the Z9 mirrorless camera, feature an EXPEED 7 image processing engine. Thus, the D5600 image processor is still relevant.
The image processor works with the sensor to produce high-quality photographs with sharpness, color accuracy, dynamic range, and low-light sensitivity to a native of ISO 25,600. Thus, the D5600 can compete with some advanced models and entry-level DSLRs in dimly lit environments.
Multi-CAM 4800DX Autofocus Sensor And Scene Recognition System
The camera features fast autofocus (AF) system that employs approximately 39 distinct AF points, including nine cross-type sensors to quickly acquire and place the subject in focus in a range of varying light conditions, from -1 to +19 EV. Also, it has a unique 3D tracking mode that utilizes the 2016-pixel RBG image sensor, which is generally reserved for exposure metering and to maintain a sharp focus on fast-moving photographic subjects.
To make subject tracking easier when working in AF-C or AF-A focus modes, the D5600 offers a Dynamic-area AF mode, which allows you to choose from 9, 21, or 39-points for improved subject tracking and recognition (lock), even if the subject briefly exits the frame. Likewise, other tracking options, such as Single-point AF, Auto-area Af, and 3D-tracking modes, are also available to enhance your overall subject tracking experience.
Similarly, when working in live view, for either still or video recording, you can employ a contrast-based AF system to acquire accurate or precise focus. Furthermore, the Nikon D5500 features an intelligent Scene Recognition system, which uses the 2016-pixel RBG to examine all the information (brightness, contrast, subject distance) within a shooting scene. This improves the gadget’s overall autofocus performance.
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Special Effects And A built-in Vignette Control Function
The D5500 is integrated with about ten special effects that enable creative expressions. The built-in vignette control function helps reduce the drop in brightness at the edges of the frame, often caused by lenses.
Photos clicked by Nikon D5500
Video And Image Qualities
The image quality of the D5500 is excellent. It produces precise colors and reasonable exposure levels even in automatic shooting mode.
You can adjust camera settings in full manual mode to get the best results in rough shooting situations. With the Nikon D5500, you can shoot in RAW or JPEG image formats. Although the camera performance might slow down when shooting in RAW compared to JPEG, the final deliverables justify its price.
Concerning video performance, Nikon equipped the D5500 with a D-movie function that supports recording smooth Full HD clips at 1920 x 1080/60p. Its built-in stereo microphone helps it in recording quality sounds. Practically, the video and picture qualities of the camera are impressive and justify its class, features, and price.
Viewfinder And Display
The Nikon D5500 has an integrated optical viewfinder and an articulating 3.20-inch LCD with a resolution of 1,037k dots. The viewfinder frame and magnification coverages are approximately 95% and 0.82x, respectively.
Related Article: ” Canon EOS Rebel SL1 DSLR Camera- Suitable For Macro and Landscape Photography ”
Body Build And Handling
The brand designed the body with carbon-fiber composite materials. Thus, it is lightweight (420g -body only), strong, and durable. It also feels solid on the hands. All the vital keys and controls are mannerly-placed, and the deep grip provides a firmer and steadier hold on the camera. Pragmatically, the D5500 is designed to be user-friendly.
Low Light Performance
For low-light photography, Nikon has included a pop-up flash with this model to compensate for poor lighting situations in dark scenes.
Overall Speed Performance
It is fast and allows the users to click up to 5 frames per second in burst mode. You can enjoy unlimited continuous shooting using shutter speeds between 4 and 30 seconds.
Battery Capacity
Based on the CIPA testing standard, you can record approximately 820 pictures per charge with the Nikon D5500.
What Type Of Photography Is the Nikon D5500 Camera Suitable For?
Generally, the D500 is suitable for landscape, portrait, and night sky photography.
Who Should Buy? Value For Money?
The Nikon D5500 is a beginner DSLR camera. Although it was superseded by D5600 in 2016, it is still a contender on the market due to its small size, durability, features, and quality video and photo reproduction capability. Furthermore, the D5500 is also suitable for anyone who has invested in several Nikon DSLR lenses and other accessories.
You can learn more about the ” Nikon D3500 – An Award-Winning Entry-Level DSLR Camera ” in our article.