Nikon D3200 - Beginner's Delight

The successor to last year's D3100, the D3200 sports some serious specifications for an entry-level DSLR, such as a 24-megapixel CMOS sensor. It also offers full HD movie recording, a 4fps burst mode, and an 11-point AF system. So, how does this 'traditional' DSLR fare in our tests? Come on in to find out.

Nikon D3200: The Day We See a 24MP Sensor in an Entry-level DSLR

With mirrorless system cameras slowly eating into the entry-level DSLR camera segment, it seems that entry-level DSLR cameras are dying a slow death. If you noticed, the number one claim of all mirrorless camera makers is that you can get DSLR quality in a mirrorless camera, sans the bulkiness and complicated controls. If so, why would anyone need a DSLR camera?

Still, there are many who prefer a DSLR over a mirrorless camera. Common reasons cited are the former's use of a larger sensor (more applicable to those looking for a full-frame camera, since many mirrorless cameras use APS-C sensors too), the availability of an optical viewfinder, better controls, and the satisfaction of holding a 'real' camera. And let's not forget that the entry DSLR segment is still the most important segment (unit share and profit share wise) for DSLR makers, so we might even see some innovations in the near future that are geared toward countering the mirrorless camera onslaught. (By the way, Nikon has just announced the new Nikon 1 J2 mirrorless camera.)

Enter the Nikon D3200. A successor to last year’s D3100, the D3200 sports some impressive specifications for an entry-level DSLR, some of which are commonly found on mid-range or top-tier models. While it's perfectly normal to expect average specs for an entry-level DSLR, the Nikon D3200 bucks this trend, sporting Nikon’s latest image-processing engine, the Expeed 3, which promises high-speed processing and updated phase detection autofocus (AF) for faster AF capabilities. Light sensitivity has also been improved from the previous model, with the D3200 now capable of shooting up to ISO 6,400 (12,800 with boost).

But what truly sets it apart from its peers is its 24.2-megapixel (effective) CMOS sensor, the highest megapixel count in an APS-C sensor to date. Sure, there are other cameras with a 24MP APS-C sensor, such as the Sony Alpha SLT-A65 and SLT-A77 SLT cameras, as well as the quite superb NEX-7 mirrorless camera - but at S$1,099 (18-55mm lens kit), the D3200 is the most affordable of the lot. Not to mention, it's a 'real' DSLR, with a mirror box and an optical viewfinder.

Of course, megapixel count matters little if the other aspects of the camera aren't up to standard. So, has Nikon delivered an impressive DSLR for beginners in the D3200, or is it just smoke and mirrors? Read on to find out.

Don't like red? There's a black version of the D3200.

Don't like red? There's a black version of the D3200.

Design and Handling

Even when comparing the D3200 to other DSLR cameras using an APS-C sensor, the D3200 somehow feels smaller. This is probably good news to those who find DSLR cameras bulky and heavy. The D3200’s body does feel a bit too plastic for us, but we do suppose that contributes to a lower price point, something that will appeal to the price-sensitive consumer or someone upgrading from a digital compact.

We like the deep hand grip present on the D3200. The camera body is not very tall, hence those with bigger hands may find their pinky finger dangling off the edge, but the deep grip contributes to a more secure grip. The quality of rubber on the hand grip and rear thumb rest is good, which makes you feel like you’re holding onto a more expensive camera if you can overlook the plastic construction of the camera body. While the D3200 doesn’t feel as premium as the higher-end models in Nikon’s line-up, it does feel robust and definitely does not feel cheap or inferior to other entry-level models.

In terms of button layout, the D3200 doesn’t differ much from its predecessor, the D3100, except with some changes in certain areas. While the D3100 featured a combined Live View and video record button, the D3200 has a separate Live View button on the rear and the video record button is now found right behind the shutter release button. In our opinion, this makes it more convenient to record videos while shooting, as all you need to do is move your trigger finger from the shutter release button to the video record button.

The video record button is now located behind the shutter release button, so it's quick and easy to start recording video.

The video record button is now located behind the shutter release button, so it's quick and easy to start recording video.

Unlike some entry-level DSLRs, the D3200 has separate compartments for the battery and memory card, so you don't need to open the battery cover if you just want to swap a card. This design trait has been consistent with a number of past entry-level cameras from Nikon so it's good to know it's still continued on the new D3200 model.

Unlike some entry-level DSLRs, the D3200 has separate compartments for the battery and memory card, so you don't need to open the battery cover if you just want to swap a card. This design trait has been consistent with a number of past entry-level cameras from Nikon so it's good to know it's still continued on the new D3200 model.

Most of the buttons that you will use during shooting are conveniently placed on the right, near the shutter release button. Even the power switch circles the shutter release button, so you can effectively power on the camera and shoot with one hand if you are so inclined. The exposure compensation button is also located right behind the shutter release button, so you can toggle it on and adjust the level of compensation by rotating the dial that is located right above the thumb rest. We would say that the button layout for the D3200 does make shooting easy for beginners, which is something not every camera can claim to do.

The D3200's OVF offers 95% viewfinder coverage and 0.8x magnification.

The D3200's OVF offers 95% viewfinder coverage and 0.8x magnification.

One of the biggest gripes about mirrorless system cameras is the lack of a viewfinder; even if a model does have one, it is an electronic viewfinder (EVF) as opposed to an optical viewfinder (OVF). The D3200 has an OVF, which means that what you're seeing on it is exactly what the lens sees. And you get no such things as time lag and viewfinder resolution limits. But unlike most EVFs and the OVFs on pro-level DSLRs, the OVF in all beginner DSLRs doesn't show everything of a frame that the final image will include. In the D3200's case, the viewfinder coverage is 95%, meaning that 5% of the actual image will not be shown on the viewfinder when you're looking through it. In normal situations this won’t really make a difference, but there may be instances where something unexpectedly pops up in the corner of your picture and you won't see it until you review your images.

The rear display of the D3200 has been improved from the one found on the D3100 as well. The D3200’s display sports 921,000 dots, versus the D3100’s 230,000 dots. This increase in screen resolution makes for a sharper screen, which is helpful for live view shooting and when reviewing recorded footage/photos during playback. It’s a pity that the D3200’s screen cannot be swiveled, though we’re sure this feature was omitted to keep the D3200’s price down.

Like its predecessor, the D3200 has an interface that is easy to use and will appeal to DSLR beginners. There's no smaller secondary display, so you'd find yourself relying heavily on the 3-inch LCD for changing of settings. In short, pressing the Info button brings up most of the camera’s key settings, and they can be adjusted by using the d-pad.

The Info button brings up on-screen key shooting settings, which you can quickly refer to and make necessary adjustments.

The Info button brings up on-screen key shooting settings, which you can quickly refer to and make necessary adjustments.

To help entry users take great photos on the get-go and to help them improve their photography skills, the D3200 also has a Guide mode that provides step-by-step assistance from setup and shooting, to viewing and deleting of the images. Always wanted to take great close-up shots of mouth watering food, or portraits of your loved ones, but are unsure of how? Simply engage ‘Easy operation’ and select the appropriate scenarios. For more creative options, such as softening of the background, freezing of motion, and creating dramatic sunset shots, choose ‘Advanced operation’. Techniques will be explained, examples shown, and recommendations given along the way till you press the shutter release button. It’s like having a personal digital photography tutor who’s always with you.

In addition to Guide mode assistance, the D3200 also comes with Scene modes that cover common shooting scenarios. These modes are easily accessible; just turn to one of the six icons on the mode dial: Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-up or Night portrait, and let the camera take care of the rest.

Still picking up proper photography tactics? Guide mode will assist you through depending on what you want to shoot, be it macro photography, portraits, landscapes, or even 'sleeping faces' (yes, there's even such an option).

Still picking up proper photography tactics? Guide mode will assist you through depending on what you want to shoot, be it macro photography, portraits, landscapes, or even 'sleeping faces' (yes, there's even such an option).

If you're familiar with DSLR cameras, you will find it a slight hassle to change AF area modes, as you need to access an additional sub-menu. Of course you'll have to consider the purpose of this camera which was catered for ease of usage. As such, toying with AF area mode settings isn't the most vital of functions for most entry-level users.

If you're familiar with DSLR cameras, you will find it a slight hassle to change AF area modes, as you need to access an additional sub-menu. Of course you'll have to consider the purpose of this camera which was catered for ease of usage. As such, toying with AF area mode settings isn't the most vital of functions for most entry-level users.

Performance

Autofocus

Despite the occasional drop in AF speed under low light situations, the D3200's 11-point AF system (with a cross-type sensor for the center AF point) is for the most part snappy and reliable. Comparatively, the Canon EOS 650D has fewer AF points (nine), but makes up for having more cross-type sensors (all AF points are cross-type). Furthermore, the AF (along with others like auto exposure and white balance) is aided by a 420-pixel RGB sensor. In 3D-tracking mode (during viewfinder shooting), the camera focuses on and tracks a subject based on a selected AF point. In AF-A or AF-C mode, keep the shutter release button pressed halfway down and the point changes automatically when the subject moves. It works great, though it has to be said that the effectiveness also largely depends on your lens (we had better results with an F2.8 lens than the kit lens). Even when your subject isn't moving, you can still make use of 3D-tracking. For example, when you recompose a shot, the AF point will move automatically to ensure that your subject remains in sharp focus. Do take note that the D3200 does not have a focus motor, so it can only autofocus with lenses that have the AF motor built-in.

If you are used to shooting using an LCD monitor or if you want to get 100% frame coverage and don't mind the AF slowness, the D3200 offers a Live View mode. Under this mode, contrast (on sensor) AF is used instead of phase detection AF. This allows for compact-camera-type functions such as face detection; one of the four AF-area modes in Live View mode is Face-priority AF. Subject-tracking AF is also available. For focus checking, we like that we can magnify the image about 9.4 times.

Image Quality

The D3200 is aimed at those taking the leap right into DSLR territory, or those upgrading from a digital compact camera. Either way, the D3200 provides an image quality that doesn't disappoint. Of course, we have to mention that the lens used will affect your results, but images are generally good with even the AF-S 18-55mm kit lens. Remember, the D3200 sees color, brightness and depth, and the benefits are clear. For example, we seldom have to deviate from the auto white balance setting. For difficult scenes such as those with high-contrast or strong back lighting, the D3200 is able to still keep good amounts of highlight and shadow details, a testament to the effectiveness of its Active D-Lighting system.

With its 24.2 megapixel sensor, the D3200 should deliver boatloads of details, and it does. Again, the kit lens is the limiting factor here. To take full advantage of the sensor, better glass is clearly needed.

If you’re upgrading from a digital compact, chances are you will be most impressed by a DSLR’s noise control due to its larger sensor. In the case of the D3200, in terms of noise, the images barely showed any difference between ISO 100 and ISO 400. Noise does start to creep in at ISO 800, but remains well-controlled until ISO 3,200, after which noise intrudes into images in a very obvious way. As expected, noise reduction at high ISOs sacrifices details to lessen the dots and speckles. More advanced users can opt to shoot in RAW, and try to retrieve more details during post-processing.

For movies, the D3200 is able to record at full HD 1,920 x 1,080-pixel resolution, with frame rate options of 30p (NTSC), 25p (PAL), and 24p. To get 60p or 50p, you've to shoot at a slightly lower 1,280 x 720-pixel resolution. Parameters like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO level are set automatically; you can use Manual mode if you want to control them yourself. Thanks to the APS-C sensor, you get better depth of field control. The rolling shutter effect is still present in video shooting, but we think most people won't notice it.

ISO 1600

ISO 1600

ISO 6400? Not a problem if you don't print big, or are only using it for web purposes.

ISO 6400? Not a problem if you don't print big, or are only using it for web purposes.

Sample Photographs

These are sample photographs shot with the Nikon D3200. The photos have not been post-processed and are copyright to SPH Magazines. They are provided for your reference only and we ask that you do not reproduce them elsewhere. Click for the full-resolution images.

f/6.3 at 27mm, 1/1000sec, ISO100.

f/6.3 at 27mm, 1/1000sec, ISO100.

f/5.6 at 157mm, 1/200sec, ISO100.

f/5.6 at 157mm, 1/200sec, ISO100.

f/5.6 at 45mm, 1/50sec, ISO4500.

f/5.6 at 45mm, 1/50sec, ISO4500.

f/5.6 at 27mm, 1/160sec, ISO100.

f/5.6 at 27mm, 1/160sec, ISO100.

Conclusion: A 'High-end' Camera for Beginners

There are some cameras that aren’t game-changers, but still manage to excel at what they’re supposed to do. The D3200 is one such camera, and in our opinion, it provides a truly enjoyable shooting experience for the novice shutterbug.

For those who don’t possess much knowledge about photography, the D3200 includes a very helpful Guide mode. And even if you do not utilize the Guide mode, the D3200 is a competent camera if you’ve just upgraded from a digital compact camera and are looking to improve on your photographic skills. The handling is great, and while it's not as small as a mirrorless camera, we feel that it's compact enough to attract even female users. Not to mention, there's a red color version.

The 24MP sensor is the D3200’s main selling point, and it's definitely capable of producing super high-resolution images. But an equally high quality lens is needed to realize its full potential, and the kit lens isn't that lens. That being said, with its good noise control, decent 4fps burst shooting speed, and good movie quality, there's not much to fault the D3200, especially when you consider its fairly wallet-friendly price tag.

The D3200 isn’t perfect though. For one, we would have preferred a less plastic-feeling body. And AF can be quite slow during live view shooting. While the Retouch menu presents a good amount of in-camera image editing functions, we feel more can be done, especially in the filter effects department. This is an area that compact cameras and mirrorless cameras are very strong in.

The D3200 is priced at S$1,099 for the 18-55mm lens kit, or S$1,349 for the 18-105mm lens kit. While we would like to recommend the D3200 wholeheartedly, we have to also consider the offerings that are available within this price bracket.

Is it an Ideal Choice for Me?

In terms of entry level models, the Sony Alpha SLT-A35 (or A37) comes with an 18-55mm kit lens and costs S$999. Sony's translucent mirror technology allows for a faster burst mode (useful for sports and action photographers), as well as faster autofocus during video recording. The Canon 650D is also a viable alternative. While it isn't an affordable entry-level model, and costs S$1,299 for the 18-55mm lens kit, the 650D offers nine AF points that are all cross-type (instead of a single one on the D3200). This makes for faster and more accurate autofocusing. The swiveling LCD display on the Canon 650D is also touch-sensitive, which is further icing on the cake.

How about those who own an older entry-level Nikon DSLR (for example, a D40X)? While the D3200 offers the useful Guide mode, it however, does not bring anything new to the table except more modern hardware. So if you have outgrown the entry-level models and would like to improve on your photographic skills, perhaps it would serve you better to take a look beyond the entry-level segment. It really boils down to what your needs are and how much you're willing to fork out for them. But for those who prefer a traditional DSLR shooting experience, prefer the Nikon user interface and consider the 24-megapixel sensor a compelling draw, then the D3200 will not disappoint. This is more so, if you've already got other lenses from Nikon to capitalize upon and the D3200 is acting as a secondary camera for more 'casual' usage.

For beginners shopping for a 'traditional' DSLR, there's no reason not to consider the Nikon D3200.

For beginners shopping for a 'traditional' DSLR, there's no reason not to consider the Nikon D3200.

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