Nikon D80 Emerges as Top Digital Single-Lens Reflex Camera

The Nikon D80 is the best DSLR in its price range. If you're looking for a step up from your point and shoot or your semi-DSLR, look no further. With a 10.2 megapixel DX format CCD and all the best features from Nikon's other DSLRs, you won't be missing out on anything. The only way to top this camera is to take the final step into the upper echelon of digital photography and purchase the $7,300 Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II, the $4,500 Nikon D2Xs, or a similar model.

The D80 has ISO settings of 100 through 1600, including an auto setting and a boost setting which pumps it up to 3200. There are six positions on the white balance override, plus a manual preset. The shutter speed ranges from a minimum of 30 seconds to a maximum of 1/4000^th of a second. The built-in, pop-up flash has a range of 13m (or around 43 feet). This camera comes with everything that photographers have come to expect from top end DSLRs. An orientation sensor, self-timer, 230,000-pixel LCD, and plenty of other features are included in the D80 model.

Of course Nikon includes a Nikon EN-EL3e Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery and charger. I've used plenty of electronics and cameras that included rechargeable batteries, and I have to say that this one seems to last the longest. I've used the D80 for extended periods of time over and over, and rarely do I ever need to stop and recharge. I never worry whether or not the battery is going to die on me if I'm going to be out all day taking pictures. And when the battery does begin to run low, the meter on the digital display lets you know right away. However, even then you have plenty of time to finish up your session or your day trip and get the battery back to the charger.

The actual camera build is very comfortable, and everything is extremely ergonomic. The button placements actually make sense, the digital readouts are convenient and easy to use, and the camera's weight is not prohibiting in the least.

All of that technical mumbo jumbo might be interesting to some people, but the real question is can this camera perform well? I'm happy to say the D80 produces excellent resolution and tons of detail. The jump from a 4 to 6 MP point and shoot to the power of 10.2 MPs is impressive. Turning the camera on and off is instant, and everything seems very smooth and quiet. Reviewing pictures and deleting unwanted captures is exceptionally simple. The D80 is packed with features that will keep its owners occupied for countless hours simply playing with the different formats.

I've used other cameras in the 10 MP range, and none can match the comfort and quality of the D80. The body runs around $960, and there are some impressive kit lenses to be found if you search around. I take most of my pictures with third party lenses (Tamron, Sigma, etc) and the quality does not seem to suffer at all. I can't seem to use the D80 with my Tamron 200-500mm or 17-50mm enough. I wanted to take the next step up in photography and DSLRs, and I think I've hit the jackpot with the Nikon D80.