Nikon 24.2 Megapixels D3200 DSLR Camera Review by CNET UK With Rating 5/5

On April 19 2012, Nikon announced the new entry-level D3200 DSLR camera. Boasting the latest-generation Guide Mode with full 1080p HD video, the D3200 features a 24.2 Megapixels DX format APS-C sensor, the same EXPEED 3 processor as the flagship D4, ISO 100-12800, 11-point autofocus system, 4fps continuous shooting, and 3-inch 921,000-dot LCD screen. 

The Nikon D3200's Guide Mode, accessible through the Mode Dial on top of camera, provides step-by-step photo instructions to beginner photographers. It walks through the process of set-up, shooting, viewing and deleting images as well as the best video settings to create home movies, or serve as a visual reference. The D3200 supports full HD 1080p video at 24 or 30 fps. It implements full-time AF during video recording and offers manual or automatic exposure control, and a stereo microphone input to attach an optional external microphone such as the compact ME-1 Stereo Microphone. Also announced alongside the D3200 is the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter, which allows you to wirelessly transmit images from your camera to an Android smart device (iOS support is promised for later in 2012) and to remotely preview the live view screen. The Nikon D3200 with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization kit lens is available for $699.95 in either black or red colors. The optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter is sold separately for $59.95. Here's the summary of review by CNET UK, giving the camera a rating of 5 out of 5:

"Nikon is trumpeting the D3200's video features almost as loudly as it is its stills performance. It shoots Full HD at 1,920x1,080 pixels, 30p, 25p or 24p, as well as 1,920x720 pixels at 60p and 50p. There's also an option for 640x424 pixels (around 3:2 aspect ratio), at 30p and 25p. The video results were as good as you might expect after close examination of its stills, with full control over microphone sensitivity, movie quality and frame rate. Sound reproduction was excellent, without excessive wind noise, while captured footage was sharp and vibrant. It handled luminance changes smoothly and without stepping, and had no trouble capturing complex movement with plenty of changes in the frame, such as subjects passing close by the lens.

Some cameras are a joy to use, and the D3200 sits very firmly within that group. The fact that its output is so crisp and clean is a bonus, making this one of the best dSLRs currently available this side of £1,000. The superior quality of the shots you'll take won't fail to impress. In part, that's down to the high resolution, but credit should also be given to the underlying firmware and processor, which do a great job of tackling noise and balancing out very complex and uneven lighting. If you have already bought into a rival camera brand, you may be reluctant to start rebuilding your lens library from scratch. But the D3200 would make an excellent upgrade from an earlier Nikon model or for professional photographers who want a lighter, cheaper, knockabout camera for recreational use. It would be a first-class companion to a higher-end unit. Either way, if you invest in a D3200, you won't be disappointed. It has all the specs and performance to keep you happy for years to come."