Nikon D5500 Key facts

Image sensor and processing

The 24.2 megapixel count of the image sensor and EXPEED 4 image processor are identical to those of the D7200. Also, 12-bit and 14-bit colour depth options are available for RAW files, but the D5500 lacks the D7200’s compression options.

Autofocus

Like the D610, the D5500 has a 39-point rather than 51-point autofocus system, based on the Multi-CAM 4800 module. It’s a better fit in the D5500, as the autofocus points spread out to fill a much greater area of the image frame. Nine of the points are cross-type.

Continuous shooting

The maximum burst rate of five frames per second is pretty brisk for a relatively inexpensive camera. It actually matches the D810 for continuous drive speed. The RAW buffer depth is 10 to 14 shots, depending on whether you choose 14-bit or 12-bit colour depth.

Metering sensor

Metering is based on the time-honoured 3D Colour Matrix II module with 2016 pixels. It’s essentially the same system that’s used in the D7200 and D610, and is reasonably consistent, although the D5500 sometimes produces rather lighter images than the D7200.

Construction

Like the D750, the D5500 is based on a monocoque construction, in which the main body shell is moulded from a single piece of material. In this case, the material used is carbon-fibre composite, which is very light yet enables a reassuringly rigid-feeling build.

Need to know

On paper, the D5500 is only 6mm thinner than the preceding D5300. However, apart from the distance between the lens mount and the rear of the body, and the front of the finger grip, it is much slimmer and lighter. It retains the D5300’s built-in Wi-Fi but ditches the latter’s GPS facility.