Archive notice: This article was originally published on January 7, 2016. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
The largest sensitivity range in Nikon’s camera history is intended to make things visible that cannot be detected by the naked eye.
Autofocus System and Performance
Whether at hectic sporting events or amid the bustle of the red carpet, the D5’s AF system with 153 focus points and 99 cross-type sensors enables very extensive image-field coverage. AF sensitivity down to -4 EV (ISO 100, 20 °C) is intended to provide outstanding low-light performance. Thanks to the new AF ASIC unit, which is independent of the main processor, Nikon says the AF system has maximum computing power available at all times. Up to 12 frames/s with exposure metering and AF tracking, or up to 14 frames/s with the mirror raised, are possible with the D5 digital SLR camera.
Nikon improved the speed and damping of the mirror, providing a significantly better view through the viewfinder when shooting fast bursts of unpredictably moving subjects, which enables even more reliable AF tracking. With the new buffer memory, up to 200 NEF (RAW) or large JPEG images can be taken in one burst. This makes it possible to photograph an entire 100-meter final without taking your finger off the shutter release once.
Exposure Metering & Image Sensor
The FX-format CMOS image sensor with 20.8 megapixels captures an enormous amount of image detail. According to Nikon, color gradation is finer and more precise, and the new EXPEED 5 image-processing engine provides exceptionally high image quality across the entire standard ISO range. The likewise new 180,000-pixel RGB exposure-metering sensor enables precise subject recognition, including reliable tracking of moving subjects by the autofocus system.
ISO
According to Nikon, an ISO sensitivity range from 100 to 102,400 (expandable to ISO 3,280,000 at the Hi 5 setting) significantly extends the boundaries of what is possible. Even in astronomical twilight (with the sun up to 18° below the horizon), the D5 still finds enough residual light. Performance is extremely low-noise across the entire standard ISO range.
4K UHD and HD Moving Images
4K video at 30p/25p/24p can be recorded directly in the camera at a resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 pixels and with a pixel-accurate crop of the image format. Full HD films can be shot in various formats at frame rates of up to 50p/60p.
The camera’s additional ergonomic and workflow improvements are based on feedback from photographers.
Price and Availability
The Nikon D5 is expected to be available from selected Nikon distribution partners (selective distribution) from March 2016 at a recommended retail price of 6,989 euros.
All further information about the Nikon D5 DSLR can be found here.
