Nikon 16.2 Megapixels D4 Full-frame DSLR Review by Pocket-lint With Rating 4.5/5

On Jaunary 5 2012, Nikon announced the 16.2 Megapixels Nikon D4 professional DSLR camera. The Nikon D4 comes with a redesigned body and features a raft of updates throughout, bringing improvements both for photographers and videographers alike. Key features include a 16.2 Megapixel FX-format image sensor, EXPEED 3 image processor, Advanced Multi-Cam 3500 autofocus module, 3D Color Matrix Metering III sensor, 10 frames-per-second full-res shooting (or 11 fps with focus / exposure locked), an expanded ISO sensitivity range of 50 to 204,800 equivalents, 3.2-inch LCD panel, and illuminated controls, as well as overhauled connectivity options including a built-in ethernet port, storage (including support for both CompactFlash and the recently-announced XQD card format), and a new battery type.

Videographers will find interesting features such as the choice of various resolutions and frame rates, including 1080p 30/24fps and 60 fps at 720p. By utilizing the B-Frame data compression method, videographers can record H.264 / MPEG-4 AVC format video for up to 20 minutes per clip. This format also allows for more accurate video data to be transferred requiring less memory capacity. The sensor reads image data fast which results in less instances of rolling shutter distortion. including 24/30 fps 1080p video capture from the whole sensor or with two optional focal length crop levels, ability to adjust the main exposure variables during capture, fine-grained audio levels control, a headphone port for live audio monitoring, the ability to output an uncompressed high def video feed to the HDMI port for external recording and display, and time-lapse video recording capability. The Nikon D4 is listed for $5999.95. Here's the summary of review by Pocket-lint, giving the camera a rating of 4.5 out of 5:

"Ignoring that minor glitch and the D4 is quite the performer. The Multi-CAM 3500 autofocus system has been improved to operate in conditions as dark as -2EV, while the 15 cross-type sensors nestled among the total 51-points are now sensitive to f/8. As Nikon pointed out at the D4's introductory conference, this means greater sensitivity when using teleconverters. Ideal for pro use where it's possible to get the very most out of kit. As per the Nikon D800, even in low light the D4's performance is one of the most impressive things we've seen. Set to single autofocus (AF-S) and focus is acquired so quickly that you'll barely notice. The 16-35mm lens used for the bulk of this test is also a quiet piece of glass, far quieter than the satisfying shutter clatter that the camera itself makes. A new factor to performance is that the D4's advanced scene recognition system - which uses the new 91,000-pixel metering system to identify subject and scene types - can recognise how to focus and expose for a scene, dependent on what that scene is. A face, for example, can be identified and exposed for even if the light source is coming from behind the subject. Although the camera is never going to do all the work for you, it's these subtle tools - that are more similar to entry-level camera models of late - that can help in some situations. But they're not compulsory: the D4 offers oodles of control to ensure you're always in charge. So much control that there's not even the space to cover it all here. But subtle controls such as how sensitive the AF is, whether shots need to be focused prior to the shutter releasing, focus point wrap-around, the severity of noise reduction, and so forth, are all embedded within the camera's menu system. Switch to continuous autofocus (AF-S) and the focus system continues to show its strength. Whether using 3D focus tracking, 51-point auto, 21 or nine point selections, the camera is one step ahead at following and locking on to even fast moving subjects. It's impressive stuff. But it's not just the focus that's fast. The 11fps burst mode can clatter off a huge number of images - no less than 70 frames in raw & JPEG with no let-up in speed. However, the burst speed does dip to 10fps if continuous autofocus and exposure adjustment are required. Good though this is, it is a smidgen slower than the Canon 1D X.

The D4 is a camera to get excited about. In fact it's phenomenal and there's no doubt some of the images that will be seen around the world from this camera will be stunning. But that doesn't mean it's not without issues. The incredible image quality is, well, incredible, but it's not a big step forward compared to the D3S. The extra resolution is there but, in truth, the extra quality isn't. That does mean it's achieving a high level, but this may deter some prospective buyers from upgrading. There is also the price to consider. Although announced at £4800 in the UK, an adjustment hiked the body-only price to a whopping £5289. It's a lot of cash, though either price point make this very much a pro-only DSLR. But where the D4 is right it's exceptional. The autofocus system is among the best, if not the best, available in the world; the design is bang on the money; the burst mode and huge buffer make continuous shooting effortless; and the new movie capabilities are up there with the best too. Make no bones about it: the Nikon D4 is an epic camera. But for your average consumer it's the Ferrari of cameras: out of reach in both price and realistic use. For the pros out there it may be a priceless tool, and in this case what's on offer is, without doubt, a new bar of excellence. What we do wonder, however, is whether the forthcoming Canon EOS 1D X will be of a similar or significantly better ilk..."