10 Best Nikon Dslr Cameras 2026 in the United States

The Nikon D500 is a strong choice if you’re after a professional-level Nikon DSLR with a DX-format (APS-C) sensor. Its 20.9-megapixel sensor delivers sharp, detailed images, and the camera handles low-light situations well thanks to its impressive ISO range that goes up to 51,200 natively and can be extended even further. The autofocus system is highly advanced with 153 focus points, making it excellent for tracking moving subjects — great if you shoot sports or wildlife. It also shoots at a fast 10 frames per second, allowing you to capture quick action smoothly.

For video, it offers 4K UHD recording at 30 fps, which is solid for high-quality footage, and the tilting touchscreen LCD adds ease when composing shots from tricky angles. In terms of build, the D500 is rugged and weather-sealed, so it can handle tough conditions better than many other DSLRs. Battery life is decent for long shoots, and built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC make sharing images convenient.

On the downside, this model is body-only, so you’ll need to buy lenses separately, which might be a consideration if you’re starting out. Also, while it’s packed with features, some might find the menu system complex at first. The Nikon D500 is well suited for serious photographers and videographers who want a durable, fast, and versatile DSLR, especially those focused on action and wildlife photography.

The Nikon D7500 is a solid choice for photography enthusiasts and semi-professionals who want advanced features without stepping up to Nikon's highest-end models. Its APS-C sensor with 20.9 megapixels delivers sharp, high-quality images. The camera excels in low-light situations thanks to its wide ISO range, expandable up to 51200, which helps capture detail even in challenging lighting. The 51-point autofocus system, including 15 cross-type sensors, provides reliable and fast focusing, supported by an 8 frames per second continuous shooting rate—great for action or wildlife photography.

Video lovers will appreciate the 4K UHD recording and additional features like 4K time lapse and power aperture control, making it versatile for creative videography. The 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen LCD adds convenience for composing shots at various angles and quick menu access. Its build quality is solid, designed to handle typical outdoor conditions with some weather resistance, although it’s not fully weather-sealed like professional-grade bodies. Battery life is decent for a DSLR, letting you shoot a day’s worth of photos without frequent recharging. Connectivity options, including built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, simplify photo transfer and remote control via the Nikon SnapBridge app.

On the downside, the camera uses digital image stabilization rather than optical, and there’s only one SD card slot, which might concern users who want backup storage. The body weighs about 1.7 pounds, which is manageable but not ultra-light for long shoots. The D7500 effectively balances strong image quality, responsive autofocus, and good video features, making it a versatile DSLR for those stepping up from entry-level models or looking for a reliable secondary camera.

The Nikon D3200 is a solid entry-level DSLR camera, great for beginners who want to step up from smartphone photography or compact cameras. Its 24.2MP DX-format CMOS sensor delivers sharp, detailed photos suitable for everyday use and some creative projects. With an ISO range from 100 to 6400 (expandable to 12,800), it performs well in various lighting conditions, although very low light shooting might still show some noise. The 11-point autofocus system with 3D tracking is decent for following moving subjects, but it’s not as advanced as newer models with more focus points. Shooting at 4 frames per second lets you capture moderate action sequences, which is fine for casual sports or family events. Video capabilities are basic, as the D3200 records up to 1080p, which is enough for hobbyist videography but lacks more advanced video features.

Build quality is typical for an entry-level DSLR—lightweight and not weather-sealed, so it’s best kept away from harsh weather. Battery life is reasonable, powering through a good number of shots per charge, which is convenient for day trips or events. Connectivity options are limited compared to newer cameras; no built-in Wi-Fi means transferring photos requires a cable or memory card reader. The included 18-55mm and 55-200mm VR lenses give versatile zoom ranges, making this bundle a good starting kit for various photo styles. In essence, the Nikon D3200 delivers strong image quality and user-friendly controls for beginners while lacking some of the speed, video features, and modern connectivity found in more recent DSLR models.