Nikon D7100 Review: A User-Friendly Powerhouse

The Nikon D7100 is a powerful and versatile DSLR that takes full advantage of Nikon's EXPEED 3 image processor. Capable of handling a wide range of lighting conditions, filming full HD 1080p video, and taking an incredible 950 pictures between charges, the D7100 is a powerhouse presented in a user-friendly package.
The Good
- 24.1 megapixel DX-format sensor
- Faster, more accurate Expeed 3 processor
- Broad ISO sensitivity from 100 - 6400 with support for ISO 50, ISO 12800, and ISO 25600
- Wide range of resolutions and frame rates for movies, maxing at 60fps 1080i
- Huge number of autofocus points with support for 3D tracking
The Bad
- Disappointing video output quality
- No aperture control when using video mode
- Image played back at max magnification are pixelated
The Verdict
The outstanding feature of this camera is most decidedly its 24.1 megapixel DX-format sensor. While some of its other areas are lacking, especially in the way of video, the D7100 takes excellent still photos that will please beginner and intermediate DSLR users alike.
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Tech Specs
Image Quality
24 MP, max 1080i @ 60fps
Audio Quality
Above average
Battery Life
950 photos (approx)
Wifi and Bluetooth
Optional
Design and Hardware
The D7100 is one of Nikon's bulkier offerings, measuring in at 5.3 x 4.2 x 3 inches and weighing in at almost 24 ounces. The camera has some heft to it, although the controls remain easy to use and the body is comfortable to grip. It's not quite a compact DSLR, but it's portable enough to carry around comfortably.
Image and Video Quality
The D7100's photos are nothing short of astounding. The Expeed 3 image processor makes short work of creating high resolution, low noise images with smooth image gradients and solid color reproduction. Images focus quickly, using 51 focal points to bring a subject into precise clarity. The D7100 also includes a huge variety of manual controls for customizing and reshaping images before and after they hit the SD card.
Video isn't quite as outstanding as images though, and photographers who film a lot of action will see the camera as a bit of a letdown. This is especially true since the aperture can't be controlled in movie mode.
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Battery Life and Performance
The D7100 features an incredible battery rated for 950 photos per charge. The 1/8000 second shutter can take continuous images up to 6 fps, or take a long exposure shot up to 30 seconds. Although the D7100's video isn't the greatest, it makes up for it somewhat by including stereo microphones. Wi-Fi is also available as an add-on for remote control.
Conclusion
The D7100 falls short in a few areas, but overall is a solid DSLR that takes phenomenal still pictures. True to Nikon's previous offerings, the D7100 is great for novice and intermediate photographers who don't demand much from their cameras except for quality.
