The Nikon D850 is an awarding-winning professional full-frame digital single-lens reflex camera. Nikon announced it on the 25th of July, 2017. However, it was launched on the 24th of August 2017 and started shipping on the 8th of September 2017. It supersedes the Nikon D810.
The D850 is the first Nikon DSLR to sport a back-illuminated imaging sensor, coupled with the presence of other advanced features; the camera can capture stunning images and videos. Its AF performance is also quite impressive, and the camera is capable of thriving even in poorly or overly lit environments.
The Nikon D850 was awarded the best Professional DSLR camera at the 2018 Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) World Awards.
General
Pros |
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45.7MP sensor |
Multi-CAM 20K AF system |
Button illumination |
No optical low-pass filter |
Cons |
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No in-built flash |
EXPEED 5 processor |
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Key Features And Extras
45.7 Megapixel Back-side Illuminated (BSI) CMOS Sensor And EXPEED 5 Image Processor
The Nikon D850 has a 45.7MP back-side illuminated Fx-format full-frame CMOS imaging sensor with no optical low-pass filter for high-resolution shooting, brilliant low-light quality, and faster readout speeds to benefit burst shooting, time-lapse movie recording, and general video shooting. Furthermore, it enables extraordinary image quality with little to no digital noise, even when working at high ISO sensitivity.
Next, the EXPEED 5 image processing engine ensures high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 9-frames per second with the optional MB-D18 battery grip. It works together with the sensor for improved performance and functionality, regardless of the shooting or environmental situations.
153-AF Points Multi-CAM 20K AF System And Dynamic ISO Range
The Nikon D850 sports an intelligent Multi-CAM 20K AF system, which provides even wider and more accurate AF coverage. The robust AF system features 153 phase-detection points for improved and accurate AF performance.
Out of the 153 AF points, 99 are cross-type sensors spread across the central and peripheral areas for outstanding focus detection and tracking. Furthermore, 55 of the 153 AF points are selectable, allowing photographers to customize autofocus performance for greater composition and clicking. This intelligent AF system also enhances the D850 AF-area modes and makes it suitable for wildlife and sports photography. It uses a dense spread of focus points to accurately track and capture fast-moving subjects throughout the frame.
Next, the DSLR camera features a dynamic ISO range down to ISO 64 (expandable to ISO 32). The lowest ISO base allows for even more smooth clicks in overly bright situations.
Creative Picture Control And Wireless Functions
Furthermore, the D850 DSLR offers Nikon’s picture control system, which allows users to add creative looks and effects to their photos and videos without sacrificing quality or introducing noise.
In-built Bluetooth and Wi-Fi functions are also available for easy file transfer to a compatible smartphone or device using Nikon’s SnapBridge app. This also allows remote control and shooting with the D80.
Body Build And Handling
Nikon designed the D850 DSLR using magnesium alloy and fiber materials for improved durability and sturdy feeling. It is also weather-sealed and can perform well in harsh shooting conditions. Although it weighs approximately 915g (body only), it is still portable and feels comfortable on the hands.
Regarding handling, it has an ergonomic grip and is shaped to benefit handling for extended clickings with weariness. Similarly, most of the vital buttons are illuminated for greater visibility and ease of access when working in dark locations.
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Photo Clicked by Nikon D850
Viewfinder And Display
It has an Eye-level Pentaprism Single-Lens Reflex Viewfinder with approximately 100% frame coverage. The D850 also has a large 3.2 in. diagonal 2.359m-dot Tilting TFT touch-sensitive LCD Monitor. The tilting touch-sensitive monitor makes it easy to frame and get shots from different angles, including high and low angles.
Display
Viewfinder
Image And Video Qualities
The D850 is a capable and high-performance multimedia DSLR camera. It can record 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) using the total width and resolution of the D850’s back-side illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor or a DX crop area at 30/25/24p. Full HD recording at up to 120p for slow motion playback is also supported.
Furthermore, a 4K UHD time-lapse in-camera is also available. You can also create well-detailed and edge-to-edge sharp 8K time-lapse movies by shooting sequences of up to 9,999 full-size still images. Generally and practically, the image and video performance were quite impressive.
Low Light Performance
The camera doesn’t feature an in-built flash. However, the new 45.7-megapixel and Multi-CAM 20K AF system helps the D850 to thrive in dim lighting environments. Its ability to autofocus down to -4 EV in dark situations allows the device to capture and render extraordinary results in low light.
Lens System
Exposure & White Balance
Camera Flash
Communications
Video Recording
Speed Performance
The D850 offers a reasonable amount of speed. Photographers can click approximately 7-frames per second for up to 51 consecutive 14-bit lossless compressed RAW files in continuous or burst shooting mode.
With the optional MB-D18 battery grip and EN-EL18a/b battery, the burst speed will be increased to approximately 9fps.
Battery Performance
The battery will last up to 1,840 shots and approximately 70 minutes of HD footage per charge, according to CIPA testing standards.
What Type Of Photography Is The Nikon D850 Suitable For?
Although the Nikon D850 features an EXPEED 5 processor, it is still suitable for a wide range of photography. It is ideal for portrait, wedding, sports, and landscape photography.
Who Should Buy? Value For Money
The Nikon award-winning D850 is a pro camera designed for professional photographers and filmmakers. It offers higher resolution stills and videos, making it one of the best DSLRs you can buy.