Nikon D7100
It was big news when it was launched, but some of the D7100’s thunder has since been stolen
Compared with the D7000, which was launched some twoand-a-half years earlier, the D7100 brought a raft of significant updates. The biggest news at the time was the omission of the low-pass filter – and whereas the full-frame D800 and D800e cameras gave you the choice of a particular body with or without the filter, the D7100 is only available without it. Considering that the D7000 has been criticised for a lack of outright detail resolution, it’s perhaps not surprising that the low-pass filter went, along with a hike in pixel count from 16.2 to 24.1 megapixels.
Other improvements over the D7000 include a step up in autofocus from a 39-point to a 51-point system, a newer generation Expeed 3 image processor and a larger, higherres LCD screen. The D5300 now also omits the low-pass filter, has an even newer Expeed 4 processor, an articulated LCD and boasts built-in Wi-Fi and GPS. Even so, the D7100 has more refined handling aimed at enthusiasts. Refinements in this respect include a locking button on the shooting mode dial to avoid accidental changes, and the option to configure the rear ‘OK’ button for one-touch magnification when reviewing images, similar to the D300s.
Performance
Performance is very impressive, and the D7100 shows an increase in fine detail recorded in images over the D7000. However, along with the rise in resolution comes a reduced buffer capability. Whereas the D7000’s memory buffer can hold between 10 and 15 RAW quality shots, depending on colour depth and compression settings, the D7100 runs out of space in only six to nine shots.
Pros… Improved resolution, 51-point AF, high-quality pentaprism viewfinder, secondary LCD panel.
Cons… Limited buffer space for RAW quality shooting, lacks Wi-Fi, GPS and an articulated screen.