The Nikon D850 Is the Camera You’ve Been Waiting For

Camera & Lenses The Nikon D850 Is the Camera You’ve Been Waiting For
October 23, 2017 Donald Scarinci 0Comment

Nikon recently announced the D850. Unlike the prior upgrades from the D800/e to the D810, the D850 substantially raises the bar. So if you are looking for a new Nikon DSLR, the new and improved features may be worth the splurge.

Nikon-D850In announcing the D850 to commemorate its 100th anniversary, Nikon called its latest camera a “formidable tool for creators.” Compared to its predecessor, the D850 delivers more speed, superior low light performance, and more reliable autofocus. Its new ergonomic design also results in improved handling.

According to Nikon, the most significant upgrade is the camera’s back-side illuminated (BSI) FX-format full-frame CMOS image sensor with 45.7 megapixels. The new censor really shines when working in low-light conditions at high sensitivities. The elimination of an optical low-pass filter further improves sharpness and resolution. 

The D850 also features the EXPEED 5 image processor, which is also used in the D5. At ISO 64, the D850 boasts the lowest base ISO of any DSLR or mirrorless camera. Below are several other noteworthy features:

  • The camera’s 153 focus points with 99 cross-type sensors, 15 of which support f/8, provide 130 percent more frame coverage than D800/D800E or D810.
  • At 45.7 MP of resolution, the camera captures up to 51consecutive shots in 14-bit RAW (NEF) or up to 170 frames in 12-bit lossless compressed RAW (NEF). 
  • The optical pentaprism viewfinder offers a large 0.75x magnification.
  • The tilting touchscreen LCD screen makes it easier to shoot from high or low angles.
  • The Silent Photography in Live View feature allows photographers to capture images without sound or mechanical vibration. 
  • Video capabilities include 4K Ultra HD recording, with slow motion up to 120 FPS at 1080p.
  • Memory card slots include one high-speed XQD card as well as one SD card.
  • The D850 comes equipped with built-in SnapBridge connectivity that enables wireless sharing of low-resolution photos, as well as remote live view monitoring from a linked mobile device.

Photographers can add the new MB-D18 Multi Battery Power Pack for improved handling with telephoto prime or telephoto zoom lenses. The MB-D18 increases shooting speed to 9 FPS at full resolution. For shooting stills in continuous AF, the total shot count grows to approximately 5,140 shots on a single EN-EL18b battery or up to 145 minutes of HD video.

The retail price for the body only is $3,299.95. Not surprisingly, the Nikon D850 is currently the top seller at B&H. As a result, it is out of stock and only available for pre-order.