Review of the Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera: A Powerful Tool for Photography Enthusiasts
The Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera, bundled with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, represents an impressive blend of technology, performance, and user-friendly features. This camera serves as an excellent choice for both enthusiasts and those who are venturing into the world of professional photography. In this review, we will delve into the key features of the D7500, its performance in various shooting scenarios, and provide a detailed assessment based on user experiences.
Image Quality and Performance
Class-Leading Image Quality
The D7500 boasts an exceptional image quality that rivals even the award-winning D500. With a 20.9MP CMOS sensor and the powerful EXPEED 5 image processing engine, this camera captures stunningly detailed images across a wide range of lighting conditions. The high ISO capabilities, extending from 100 to 51,200 (expandable to 1,640,000), allow photographers to shoot in low light with minimal noise, making it a versatile tool for various situations.
Fast and Accurate Autofocus
Equipped with a 51-point AF system, including 15 cross-type sensors, the D7500 ensures precise focus, even in challenging environments. The camera’s ability to shoot at up to 8 frames per second (fps) in continuous mode is particularly advantageous for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as during sports events or wildlife photography. Users have reported that the autofocus system is responsive and quick, allowing them to seize fleeting moments without missing a shot.
Design and Usability
Intuitive Touchscreen Interface
The large 3.2-inch, 922K-dot tilting LCD touchscreen enhances the user experience by providing a clear view of compositions and settings. The touch functionality simplifies menu navigation and allows for easy adjustments, which is particularly beneficial for those new to DSLR photography. Users appreciate the ability to pull out the screen for low-angle or overhead shots, which adds versatility to shooting angles.
Sturdy and Comfortable Build
The D7500 features a robust and weather-sealed body that feels durable in hand. Photographers transitioning from lighter mirrorless systems may notice the weight, but many users find the solid construction reassuring, especially when shooting outdoors. The camera’s ergonomics ensure that it fits comfortably, allowing for extended use without fatigue.
Video Capabilities
4K Ultra HD and Beyond
One of the standout features of the D7500 is its capability to shoot 4K Ultra HD video, alongside full HD 1080p recording. The camera includes advanced features like power aperture control and auto ISO, which enhance video quality. The ability to create 4K UHD time-lapse videos is a creative advantage for filmmakers and content creators.
User Experiences
A Step Up for Enthusiasts
Many users transitioning from older models, like the Nikon D5100 or even mirrorless systems, have found the D7500 to be a significant upgrade. The combination of higher megapixels, improved ISO range, and enhanced autofocus capabilities has made it an appealing option for those looking to step into a more professional realm of photography without breaking the bank.
Learning Curve
While the D7500 is packed with features, some users have reported a steep learning curve when it comes to mastering its capabilities. The extensive Custom Setting Menu can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with Nikon’s systems. However, investing time in understanding the settings, possibly with supplemental resources like instructional books, has helped users fully utilize the camera’s potential.
Reliable and Fast Service
Many purchasers have noted the reliability of the sellers and quick shipping times. Receiving the camera ahead of schedule has been a pleasant surprise for many, contributing to a positive overall purchasing experience.
Overall Rating
After considering the performance, features, and user experiences, we would rate the Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera as follows:
- Image Quality: 4.8/5
- Autofocus Performance: 4.7/5
- Usability: 4.5/5
- Video Capabilities: 4.6/5
- Build Quality: 4.5/5
- Overall Experience: 4.6/5
Final Thoughts
The Nikon D7500 is an exceptional camera that offers a wealth of features for both budding photographers and seasoned professionals. Its class-leading image quality, robust autofocus system, and versatility in both photography and videography make it a worthy investment. While there may be a slight learning curve, the reward is a powerful tool capable of delivering stunning results in a variety of shooting scenarios. It earns an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5, making it a standout option in Nikon’s DSLR lineup.
Overall Rating: 4.6/5⭐
Denys –
Great camera!!!
paulo roberto alves de moraes –
Great!
claude blanchard –
I previously owned the Nikon D7100, and now with the new D7500 featuring a tilting screen and a faster processor, it works wonderfully.
LGL –
I am absolutely thrilled with this camera! Upgrading from a Nikon D5xxx, I found the D7500 to be the ideal choice without needing all the extensive features of the D500. It’s been customized to my liking with a 128GB card, and I’m capturing stunning images effortlessly. The continuous shooting speed of the D7500 is impressive, allowing me to photograph fast-moving subjects without quickly filling the buffer.
The touchscreen is fantastic—very intuitive and responsive. I appreciate that it’s adjustable, making it easy to take low-angle or overhead shots in a crowd. The D500 sensor with its built-in AE is exceptional, delivering the performance of a higher-end model at a more reasonable price. I don’t require a second SD slot, and the camera fits comfortably in my hands; adding a battery grip would only make it heavier and bulkier.
Katie Rivers –
I can’t add much to what others have already said, but having transitioned from Film SLRs and a Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, which I primarily used indoors, I found myself needing some guidance to fully understand the D7500’s settings, especially the Custom Setting Menu and their effects on photography and button customization. This was my first experience with Nikon, and while I have a good grasp of exposure, aperture, focal length, and ISO, I was eager to use the newer DSLR in manual mode.
I wanted to set up Back-Focus and reprogram buttons for Active D-Lighting, picture control, locked focus, and to turn off Auto-Focus. After a week filled with disappointing photos and frustration over incorrect settings, I decided to buy David Busch’s “Nikon D7500 Guide to Digital SLR Photography.” I’m not promoting any specific authors or books, but this guide made it significantly easier and quicker for me to configure my D7500 for manual photography. It’s a fantastic alternative to Nikon’s manual, and I even got a Kindle version for convenience while traveling.
Now, I shoot exclusively in manual mode and have created a coherent custom menu, assigned custom controls to easily accessible buttons, and finally nailed the right combination of settings for U1 (color) and U2 (B&W). Phew! Before I found a solid user manual, I almost returned the Nikon in favor of a Sony. After all this, I can confidently say that this camera is an excellent value for its price range. The only other camera I considered was the Sony Alpha a6500, which was priced around $1100 compared to the D7500 at $1145. I’m glad I chose the D7500—I might just become a Nikon enthusiast!
Shiv Kumar Yadav –
Excellent product. This is Nikon’s last high-performance crop sensor DSLR. Get it before they discontinue the legendary D7500.
Cyndi –
I was in search of an upgrade from my Nikon D5100 and researched options that would be suitable for my photography business. I discovered the D5100 as an affordable upgrade, boasting 20 megapixels and a broader range of ISO and aperture settings. One standout feature is the easy app-based transfer to my phone, which is incredibly convenient. While this camera is a noticeable improvement from the D5100, I also believe it’s an excellent entry-level option for anyone starting a photography business. I wasn’t ready to spend thousands of dollars, so this was a great step in the right direction. The seller was impressively fast; I received my camera four days earlier than expected. The camera performs exactly as advertised, and I would definitely trust this seller in the future.
Shiv Kumar Yadav –
The D7500 is a fantastic camera that offers outstanding value. It comes equipped with features that are highly beneficial for both enthusiasts and amateurs.
Cyndi –
This camera may be seen as “dated” by younger photographers, but it remains a powerhouse and is essential for anyone looking to capture images in various scenarios! It’s a significant upgrade from my previous DSLR, so I’m still getting accustomed to its features. I also find it an improvement over my Z50 mirrorless camera. While the mirrorless model is lighter, there are times when it simply can’t meet my needs.
The true test for this D7500 will be during marching season at halftime shows, but I’m already quite impressed! The 18-140 lens is outstanding! It allows me to zoom effortlessly in all the situations I’ve encountered so far. The autofocus is incredibly fast, and I appreciate that I can switch to manual focus directly on the lens without navigating through the camera’s settings. This feature greatly reduces the chance of missing photo opportunities while I search for adjustments in the menu.
The sturdy body adds some weight, but I personally don’t see that as a drawback. I began my photography journey with an SLR that had no autofocus and used black-and-white film in high school, even developing my own photos.
The features and options on this camera are truly remarkable, and I still have much to learn, but so far, I’m very impressed! I’ve always been a Nikon enthusiast, and they continue to deliver excellent photography cameras and lenses!
*Photo taken at my local Memorial Day ceremony. This pup was incredibly quick, and I snapped several photos in rapid succession to capture the one shown here. The D7500 performed flawlessly, focusing quickly, and I was able to get this great shot. The owners were thrilled when I shared it on the local page, as they hadn’t yet captured a good picture of their new puppy!
martin zamudio –
Original product of great quality, I highly recommend it.