Introduction to the Nikon D5200

The Nikon D5200, released in late 2012, quickly became a favorite among photography enthusiasts seeking a balance between advanced features and user-friendly operation. As an upgrade to the popular D5100, the D5200 introduced several key improvements that solidified its place in the mid-range DSLR market.

With its 24.1-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor, advanced autofocus system, and innovative tilting touchscreen display, the Nikon D5200 offers a compelling package for both beginners and hobbyist photographers looking to expand their creative horizons.

Nikon D5200 DSLR camera with 18-55mm lens

Design & Build Quality

The Nikon D5200 features a sleek, modern design that balances portability with a comfortable grip. Despite its lightweight construction, weighing just 550g (body only), the camera feels solid and well-built, with a durable plastic body that can withstand regular use.

One of the standout design features of the D5200 is its tilting 3.2-inch LCD touchscreen. The screen can be tilted up to 90 degrees upwards or 45 degrees downwards, making it ideal for shooting from high or low angles. The touchscreen interface is responsive and intuitive, allowing users to quickly navigate menus, adjust settings, and even focus and shoot with a tap.

Left: Nikon D5200 front view | Right: Nikon D5200 side view with tilting screen

Performance

The Nikon D5200 is powered by a 24.1-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor without an optical low-pass filter, delivering exceptional resolution and detail in both stills and videos. The sensor is paired with the EXPEED 3 image processor, which provides fast processing speeds, improved noise reduction, and enhanced dynamic range.

Image Quality

The D5200 produces stunning image quality, with sharp details and accurate colors straight out of the camera. The high-resolution sensor allows for significant cropping without losing too much detail, making it ideal for wildlife and sports photography.

In low-light conditions, the D5200 performs admirably up to ISO 3200, with minimal noise and good color retention. Pushing the ISO higher to 6400 or 12800 results in more noticeable noise, but the images are still usable for web or small print.

Autofocus System

The D5200 features a 11-point autofocus system with a single cross-type sensor at the center. While this may not be as advanced as the autofocus systems found in higher-end Nikon models, it is still more than capable of capturing sharp, well-focused images in a variety of situations.

The autofocus system is fast and accurate in good lighting conditions, and the single cross-type sensor provides better low-light performance compared to cameras with only vertical or horizontal sensors.

Video Capabilities

The Nikon D5200 is a solid choice for videographers, offering full 1080p HD video recording at 30, 25, or 24fps. The camera also supports 720p recording at 60fps for smooth slow-motion footage.

One of the standout video features of the D5200 is its ability to record video with full-time autofocus, which is particularly useful for run-and-gun shooting or vlogging. The touchscreen can also be used to manually focus during video recording, providing more control over the final look of your footage.

Nikon D5200 video recording capabilities

Video Specs:

User Experience

One of the strengths of the Nikon D5200 is its user-friendly interface, which makes it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced controls for more experienced photographers. The tilting touchscreen is a particular highlight, allowing users to compose shots from unusual angles and interact with the camera in intuitive ways.

The camera also includes a range of creative features and shooting modes, such as Scene Modes, Special Effects, and Creative Filters, which allow users to experiment with different styles and looks without having to manually adjust settings.

Battery Life

The D5200 is powered by the EN-EL14a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which provides a respectable battery life of approximately 480 shots per charge. This is slightly lower than some competing models in its class, but still sufficient for most day-to-day shooting.

For extended shooting sessions, it's recommended to carry an extra battery. The camera also supports USB charging, which is convenient for topping up the battery when traveling.

Final Verdict

The Nikon D5200 is a versatile and capable DSLR that offers an excellent balance of advanced features and user-friendly operation. Its high-resolution sensor, tilting touchscreen, and solid video capabilities make it a great choice for both beginners and hobbyist photographers looking to take their skills to the next level.

While it may not have the latest and greatest technology found in more recent Nikon models, the D5200 still holds up well in terms of image quality and performance, especially considering its price point. If you're looking for a reliable and feature-packed DSLR that won't break the bank, the Nikon D5200 is definitely worth considering.