Released in September 2014, the Nikon D750 is a full-frame DSLR camera that sits between the entry-level full-frame D610 and the professional-grade D810 in Nikon's lineup. With a 24.3 megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor, the D750 aims to strike a balance between high image quality, comprehensive features, and a relatively compact and lightweight body.
The D750 is targeted at enthusiast photographers and semi-professionals who need a versatile camera that excels at still photography and video recording. It's a considerable option for those who want to step up from an APS-C camera to a full-frame model, as well as for existing full-frame shooters looking for a capable "all-rounder" without breaking the bank.
The D750's key strengths lie in its excellent image quality, impressive low-light capabilities, advanced autofocus system, and video features. With a ruggedly built weather-sealed body, dual SD card slots, and a vari-angle tilting LCD screen, the camera is designed to appeal to a wide range of photographers, from advanced amateurs to working professionals in various fields, including weddings, events, portraits, and landscapes.
While it may not offer the ultimate performance or cutting-edge features of other Nikon models, the D750 aims to provide a well-rounded and cost-effective solution for photographers seeking a high-quality full-frame DSLR with a versatile feature set. In this review, we'll look at the camera's capabilities, performance, and how it stacks up against the competition. Affiliate disclaimer: We earn small commissions for purchases made through affiliate links; this does not impact nor alter the cost of the product or service that we are promoting; should you decide to purchase said product/service through our links, the represented company will pay us a commission as a thank you for promoting their products/services.
Table of Contents
Key Specs
Image Sensor
- 24.3 megapixel FX-format (35.9 x 24mm) CMOS sensor
- No optical low-pass filter
Image Processor
- EXPEED 4 image processor
Autofocus System
- 51-point Multi-CAM 3500FX II autofocus sensor
- 15 cross-type AF points
- -3 to +19 EV detection range
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Up to 6.5 frames per second continuous shooting
Video Capabilities
- 1080p Full HD video recording at 60/30/24fps
- 1080p uncompressed output over HDMI
- Zebra pattern, highlight display
Viewfinder and LCD
- 0.7x optical viewfinder with 100% coverage
- 3.2" 1,229k-dot tilting LCD monitor
Battery Life
- EN-EL15 rechargeable Li-ion battery
- Approx. 1,230 shots per charge (CIPA standard)
Other Key Specs
- Dual SD card slots (UHS-I compliant)
- Built-in WiFi for wireless image transfer
- Magnesium alloy body, weather-sealed
- ISO range 100-12,800 (51,200 expanded)
Design and Build Quality
The Nikon D750 features a sturdy yet lightweight construction that makes it well-suited for various shooting situations. The camera's body uses a monocoque structure with a magnesium alloy chassis and weather-sealed design, allowing it to withstand outdoor and inclement shooting conditions.
Ergonomics and Handling
In terms of ergonomics, the D750 handles exceptionally well. The deep grip, well-positioned controls, and ample thumb rest provide a secure and comfortable hand-holding experience, even for extended periods. Despite being a full-frame camera, the D750 is relatively compact and lightweight at approximately 840 grams (body only), making it easy to carry around all day.
Customization Options
Nikon has included customization options in the D750, allowing photographers to tailor the camera's behavior to their preferences. Users can assign different functions to various buttons, adjust the behavior of the autofocus system, and customize the information displayed in the viewfinder and LCD screen.
LCD
The D750 features a large, high-resolution 3.2-inch tilting LCD screen with 1,229k-dot resolution. With a tilting LCD screen, it is now easier than ever to take photographs from any angle.
Image Quality
One of the standout features of the Nikon D750 is its impressive image quality, thanks to the high-resolution 24.3 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and the capable EXPEED 4 image processor.
Dynamic Range
The D750 excels in terms of dynamic range, capturing an exceptional amount of detail in both highlights and shadows. This allows for greater flexibility in post-processing and ensures that images retain detail and natural tonality, even in high-contrast circumstances.
ISO Performance
Low-light performance is a key strength of the D750. The camera's native ISO range extends from 100 to 12,800, with an expanded range of up to ISO 51,200. Even at higher ISO settings, the D750 manages to keep noise levels well under control, producing clean and detailed images with minimal loss of quality.
Color Rendition
Nikon's image processing algorithms have consistently delivered accurate color rendition, and the D750 is no exception. Images straight out of the camera exhibit natural and vibrant colors, with authentic skin tones and accurate white balance, even in mixed lighting conditions.
JPEG vs RAW
While the D750's JPEG engine produces excellent results, shooting in RAW format unlocks the full potential of the sensor's data. RAW files from the D750 offer greater flexibility for post-processing, allowing users to adjust factors such as white balance, exposure, and noise reduction to their liking.
Autofocus and Performance
The Nikon D750 is equipped with an advanced 51-point Multi-CAM 3500FX II autofocus system, which delivers fast and accurate focusing performance, even in challenging lighting conditions.
AF Speed and Accuracy
The D750's autofocus system is impressively quick and responsive, with the ability to acquire focus in as little as 0.08 seconds. The 51 focus points, including 15 cross-type sensors, provide excellent coverage across the frame, ensuring reliable focus, even with off-center subjects.
Subject Tracking
The camera's 3D Tracking mode, combined with its high-density autofocus sensor, does an excellent job of tracking and maintaining focus on moving subjects. This makes the D750 a capable camera for capturing action shots, such as sports, wildlife, and candid moments.
Buffer Capacity
With its EXPEED 4 image processor, the D750 can shoot at 6.5 frames per second in continuous shooting mode. While not class-leading, this burst rate is more than sufficient for most photography scenarios. The camera's buffer capacity allows for up to 87 frames (14-bit lossless compressed RAW) to be captured in a single burst, ensuring that photographers don't miss crucial moments.
Video Capabilities
In addition to its excellent still photography, the Nikon D750 offers advanced video recording features that cater primarily to enthusiasts and amateurs.
Resolutions and Frame Rates
The D750 can record full 1080p HD video at up to 60 frames per second, as well as 1080p at 30 and 24 fps for a more cinematic look. It also supports uncompressed full HD output via HDMI, allowing users to record high-quality footage directly to an external recorder.
Video Autofocus
The D750's advanced autofocus system works well with video recording, with smooth and accurate focus transitions. The camera offers both full-time autofocus and manual focus override, giving videographers the flexibility to choose the focusing method to suit their shooting style.
Audio Recording
For audio recording, the D750 features a built-in stereo microphone as well as an external microphone input (3.5mm jack). Users can adjust the recording levels manually or opt for automatic gain control, guaranteeing clear and distortion-free audio capture.
Other Video Features
The D750 includes several useful video features, such as a zebra pattern display for monitoring overexposed areas, a highlight display for identifying blown highlights, and capabilities for time-lapse video.
Drawbacks or Limitations
While the Nikon D750 is an excellent all-around camera, it does have a few drawbacks or limitations that potential buyers should be aware of.
Autofocus Performance in Low Light
While the D750's autofocus system performs admirably in most situations, its low-light AF performance could be better. The camera can struggle to gain focus quickly and accurately in extremely dim conditions, which may be a concern for photographers who shoot in low-light environments.
No In-Body Image Stabilization
The D750 lacks in-body image stabilization, which has become increasingly common in competing cameras. Users will need to rely on optically stabilized lenses or other stabilization techniques (tripod, higher shutter speeds) to combat camera shake, which can be limiting for some shooting scenarios.
Limited Buffer Capacity for Continuous Shooting
While the D750's burst rate of 6.5 fps is respectable, its buffer capacity can be limiting for extended continuous shooting sequences. The camera can only maintain its maximum burst rate for a short period before slowing down, which may be a drawback for sports or wildlife photographers who need to capture extended bursts of action.
No 4K Video Recording
In an era where 4K video recording has become increasingly prevalent, the D750's lack of 4K video capabilities may be seen as a limitation by some videographers and creators. The camera is limited to full HD 1080p recording, which may not be sufficient for some professional video projects.
Single XQD/CF Card Slot
While the D750 features dual SD card slots, which
are convenient for backup or overflow storage, it lacks support for faster XQD or CFexpress memory cards. This could be a drawback for professionals who need maximum speed and performance for continuous shooting or video recording.
Some limitations of the camera may not be dealbreakers for most users, as the D750 is still a capable camera. However, photographers and videographers with specific needs should consider these drawbacks before buying it.
Competitors and Alternatives
The Nikon D750 faces stiff competition from other full-frame cameras that offer more features. Here are some alternatives to consider:
The 5D Mark IV is Canon's direct competitor to the D750, offering a 30.4 megapixel full-frame sensor, advanced autofocus system, 4K video recording, and weather-sealed body. It's a popular choice among professionals and enthusiasts, particularly for its rugged build quality and ergonomics.
The a7 III is Sony's full-frame mirrorless offering, featuring a 24.2 megapixel sensor, advanced autofocus system, and impressive 4K video capabilities. Its compact and lightweight body, paired with a growing range of native lenses, make it an attractive option for those seeking a high-performance yet portable system.
While not a full-frame camera, the Fujifilm X-T4 is a highly capable APS-C mirrorless option with a 26.1 megapixel X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor, advanced autofocus system, and impressive video features, including 4K/60p recording. Its rugged weather-sealed body and extensive range of high-quality lenses make it a compelling choice for various shooting scenarios.
The Pentax K-1 Mark II is a full-frame DSLR that has a 36.4 megapixel sensor, a robust weather-sealed body, and an articulating LCD screen. While not as popular as the mainstream brands, it's a solid alternative for those seeking exceptional image quality and a distinct feature set.
Conclusion and Rating
The Nikon D750 is a highly capable full-frame DSLR that provides excellent image quality and a versatile feature set. With its 24.3 megapixel sensor, advanced 51-point autofocus system, and impressive low-light capabilities, the D750 excels in a wide range of shooting scenarios.
One of the camera's standout features is its exceptional dynamic range, which allows for greater flexibility in post-processing and ensures that images retain detail and natural tonality, even in high-contrast situations. The D750's high ISO performance is also impressive, producing clean and detailed images with minimal noise, even at higher ISO settings.
While not a specialized video camera, the D750 offers exceptional however limited video capabilities, with full HD 1080p recording at up to 60 frames per second, along with useful features like zebra patterns, highlight displays, and uncompressed HDMI output. These capabilities make it a versatile tool for multimedia content creators and videographers who require high-quality video in addition to excellent still photography performance.
However, the D750 is not without its limitations. Its autofocus performance in extremely low light could be better, and the lack of in-body image stabilization may be a drawback for some users. Additionally, the limited buffer capacity for continuous shooting and the absence of 4K video recording may be seen as a disadvantage by professionals with specific needs.
Overall Rating: 84/100
FAQs
1. How does the D750's autofocus system compare to higher-end Nikon DSLRs?
The D750's 51-point Multi-CAM 3500FX II autofocus system is the same advanced module found in Nikon's professional D4S and D810 cameras. While not quite as densely packed as the systems in Nikon's flagship bodies, it offers excellent performance and is a significant upgrade over the 39-point system in the previous D610.
2. Can the D750 record 4K video?
3. Is the D750's buffer capacity sufficient for continuous shooting?
4. Does the D750 have any significant advantages over the older D610?
5. How does the D750's dynamic range compare to other full-frame DSLRs?
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