We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Nikon Cameras 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Nikon Z 8 with Zoom Lens | Professional full-frame mirrorless hybrid stills/video hybrid camera with 24-120mm f/4 lens | Nikon USA Model

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Autofocus System
ISO Range
Video Capabilities

Most important from
212 reviews

Autofocus System
The autofocus system is incredibly fast and accurate, making it easy to track fast-moving subjects like basketball games with DSLR-like responsiveness.
ISO Range
Images are impressively sharp, with high ISO performance allowing use of an f/4 lens indoors without sacrificing quality.
Video Capabilities
Despite a plastic body, the camera delivers superb video quality including internal 8K at 60fps and 4K at 120fps, though it can experience overheating during extended outdoor shoots.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The Z 8 feels lightweight and compact for its class, with the option to add a vertical grip to mimic the larger Z 9 ergonomics.

The Nikon Z 8 is a powerful full-frame mirrorless camera designed for professionals who want top-tier performance for both photos and videos. It features a large 45.7-megapixel stacked CMOS sensor that delivers highly detailed images, and a wide ISO range up to 102,400 for shooting in various light conditions. Its autofocus system is one of Nikon’s most advanced, using deep learning to track a wide variety of subjects accurately, even in very low light, making it excellent for fast action or wildlife photography.

For video, the Z 8 supports impressive internal 8K at 60 frames per second and 4K at 120 fps, plus 12-bit RAW recording options, giving videographers lots of flexibility and high-quality footage. The camera includes sensor-shift image stabilization to help keep shots steady, which is useful for both stills and video. The included 24-120mm f/4 lens covers a versatile zoom range suitable for landscapes, portraits, and general photography.

Build quality and ergonomics are solid, with a fully electronic viewfinder offering 100% coverage and a tilting touchscreen that’s easy to use. The camera is fairly lightweight for its capabilities, weighing just over 3 pounds, and supports dual memory card slots for extended shooting. While the bundled lens’s maximum aperture of f/4 isn’t very fast for low light or shallow depth of field compared to prime lenses, and the camera relies on sensor-shift stabilization rather than in-lens stabilization, it offers blazing-fast continuous shooting speeds up to 120 fps that benefit specific action photography scenarios. The Nikon Z 8 with the 24-120mm zoom lens is an excellent choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts seeking a versatile, hybrid camera excelling in both high-resolution stills and cutting-edge video capabilities, particularly for dynamic subjects.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Autofocus System
ISO Range
Video Capabilities

Most important from
212 reviews

Autofocus System
The autofocus system is incredibly fast and accurate, making it easy to track fast-moving subjects like basketball games with DSLR-like responsiveness.
ISO Range
Images are impressively sharp, with high ISO performance allowing use of an f/4 lens indoors without sacrificing quality.
Video Capabilities
Despite a plastic body, the camera delivers superb video quality including internal 8K at 60fps and 4K at 120fps, though it can experience overheating during extended outdoor shoots.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The Z 8 feels lightweight and compact for its class, with the option to add a vertical grip to mimic the larger Z 9 ergonomics.
#2

Nikon Z6 III with 24-70mm f/4 Lens | Full-Frame mirrorless Stills/Video Camera with 6K/60p Internal RAW Recording | Nikon USA Model

Rating
9.7
Video Capabilities
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Lens Compatibility

Most important from
155 reviews

Video Capabilities
The camera pairs well with professional video equipment, offering excellent footage quality, though some video settings like frame rates above 60fps require cropping, which may be a limitation for some users.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The grip design is notably comfortable, allowing for extended shooting sessions without fatigue.
Lens Compatibility
The camera delivers stunning photo quality, especially when paired with a high-quality lens, making it a powerful combination for photography enthusiasts.

The Nikon Z6 III is a full-frame mirrorless camera that offers excellent image quality with its 24.5-megapixel sensor, suitable for both photos and videos. It performs well in low light thanks to a wide ISO range from 100 to 204800, allowing you to capture clear shots even in darker environments. The autofocus system is advanced, using hybrid phase detection with 299 focus points and improved subject recognition, making it faster and more reliable, especially for moving subjects and faces.

Video capabilities are impressive, supporting internal 6K RAW recording at 60 frames per second, as well as slow-motion options, which is great if you want high-quality video or creative effects. The electronic viewfinder is bright and sharp, providing a clear view even in bright conditions, and the camera's body feels solid and ergonomic, making it comfortable to hold for long shooting sessions. It comes with a versatile 24-70mm f/4 lens, which covers a good range from wide-angle to short telephoto, suitable for most types of photography.

The camera lacks built-in flash and is not water-resistant, so extra care might be needed in challenging weather. Additionally, while it offers excellent video features, beginners might find some settings a bit complex to navigate at first. This camera is well-suited for enthusiasts and professionals who want a powerful, flexible tool for both stills and video work.

Rating
9.7
Video Capabilities
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Lens Compatibility

Most important from
155 reviews

Video Capabilities
The camera pairs well with professional video equipment, offering excellent footage quality, though some video settings like frame rates above 60fps require cropping, which may be a limitation for some users.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The grip design is notably comfortable, allowing for extended shooting sessions without fatigue.
Lens Compatibility
The camera delivers stunning photo quality, especially when paired with a high-quality lens, making it a powerful combination for photography enthusiasts.
#3

Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, Black

Rating
9.1
ISO Range
Autofocus System
Build Quality and Ergonomics

Most important from
1683 reviews

ISO Range
The camera excels in low-light conditions, producing clear and sharp shots.
Autofocus System
The 18-140mm lens is truly excellent, offering versatile zoom capabilities and fast autofocus.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The camera's sturdy body adds weight but enhances the feeling of robustness.

The Nikon D7500 is a versatile DSLR camera with a 20.9MP sensor, making it suitable for both professional and serious amateur photographers. One of its standout features is the high ISO range, which allows for excellent performance in low-light conditions. Additionally, the 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors ensures sharp and accurate focusing, making it great for capturing fast-moving subjects with its 8 fps continuous shooting capability.

The tilting 3.2” LCD touchscreen is convenient for composing shots from various angles and adds to its user-friendly design. The camera also excels in video recording, offering 4K Ultra HD and 1080p Full HD video capabilities, which is a plus for videographers. The build quality is robust, and ergonomics are well-thought-out, providing a comfortable grip for extended use. It comes with a versatile 18-140mm lens, covering a broad range of focal lengths suitable for various types of photography.

However, the camera does have some drawbacks. It has only one memory card slot, which might be a limitation for some professional users who prefer dual slots for backup purposes. The absence of a built-in GPS may also be a downside for those who prioritize geotagging their photos. Despite these minor cons, the Nikon D7500 offers excellent image quality, reliable performance, and a solid feature set, making it a great choice for photographers looking for a capable and well-rounded DSLR camera.

Rating
9.1
ISO Range
Autofocus System
Build Quality and Ergonomics

Most important from
1683 reviews

ISO Range
The camera excels in low-light conditions, producing clear and sharp shots.
Autofocus System
The 18-140mm lens is truly excellent, offering versatile zoom capabilities and fast autofocus.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The camera's sturdy body adds weight but enhances the feeling of robustness.

Buying Guide for the Best Nikon Cameras

Choosing the right Nikon camera can be a rewarding experience, but it requires some understanding of the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Whether you're a beginner, enthusiast, or professional, knowing what to look for will help you make an informed decision. Here are the key specs to consider when selecting a Nikon camera.
Sensor SizeThe sensor size in a camera determines the quality of the images it can produce. Larger sensors, like full-frame sensors, capture more light and detail, making them ideal for professional photography and low-light conditions. APS-C sensors are smaller but still offer excellent quality and are often found in mid-range cameras, suitable for enthusiasts and hobbyists. If you're a beginner or need a compact camera, a smaller sensor like a Micro Four Thirds might be sufficient. Consider what kind of photography you plan to do and choose a sensor size that matches your needs.
MegapixelsMegapixels refer to the resolution of the camera's sensor, indicating how many millions of pixels it can capture. Higher megapixels mean more detail, which is beneficial for large prints and cropping images without losing quality. Cameras with 20-30 megapixels are typically sufficient for most users, providing a good balance between detail and file size. If you're a professional or need extremely high resolution for commercial work, you might look for cameras with 40+ megapixels. For everyday use and sharing online, even 12-16 megapixels can be adequate.
ISO RangeISO range measures the camera's sensitivity to light. A wider ISO range allows for better performance in various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light environments. Cameras with a high maximum ISO (e.g., 25600 or higher) are great for low-light photography, such as night scenes or indoor events. If you often shoot in well-lit conditions, a camera with a moderate ISO range (e.g., up to 6400) will suffice. Consider your typical shooting environments and choose a camera with an ISO range that matches your needs.
Autofocus SystemThe autofocus system determines how quickly and accurately the camera can focus on a subject. Advanced autofocus systems with more focus points and faster performance are crucial for action, sports, and wildlife photography. If you need precise focus for fast-moving subjects, look for cameras with sophisticated autofocus capabilities. For general photography, a basic autofocus system with fewer focus points may be adequate. Think about the types of subjects you will be photographing and choose a camera with an autofocus system that meets those demands.
Video CapabilitiesIf you plan to shoot videos, consider the camera's video capabilities. Look for features like 4K resolution, frame rates, and video-specific settings. Cameras with 4K video offer high-quality footage, suitable for professional videography and future-proofing your content. For casual video recording, Full HD (1080p) might be enough. Additionally, check for features like microphone input, headphone jack, and in-body stabilization if you need better audio and smoother video. Your video needs will guide you in choosing the right camera.
Build Quality and ErgonomicsThe build quality and ergonomics of a camera affect how comfortable it is to use and how well it can withstand different conditions. Professional cameras often have robust, weather-sealed bodies that can handle tough environments, making them suitable for outdoor and travel photography. Mid-range and entry-level cameras might be lighter and more compact, which can be beneficial for everyday use and portability. Consider how and where you will use the camera and choose one that feels comfortable in your hands and meets your durability requirements.
Lens CompatibilityNikon cameras come with different lens mounts, such as F-mount for DSLRs and Z-mount for mirrorless cameras. The availability and compatibility of lenses can significantly impact your photography experience. If you already own Nikon lenses, ensure they are compatible with the camera you choose. For new users, consider the range of lenses available for the camera system and how they align with your photography needs. A versatile lens lineup can enhance your creative possibilities and future-proof your investment.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now