Nikon D5500 vs D5200

[fairy oma]

I have a Nikon D5200 and have been looking at pulling the trigger on a D5500. I have read all of the reviews on the D5500 and have been relatively pleased with what I am seeing. I have a multitude of Nikkor lenses so would only be buying the camera body. My walk around lens for WDW is usually the 18-200mm, with the 35mm f/1.8, and the 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 in my bag.

Any opinions would be appreciated.

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

First, I'm not a Nikon shooter, however I do have an opinion on upgrades. The first question I ask is,"What will the new camera do that the old one won't do for me?". Second, "Is this a want or need?". Third, "If I need an upgrade, which camera will accomplish what I'm trying to do?".

Since I don't shoot Nikon, I went to dpreview.com and did a comparison of the D5200, D5500 and the D7200:

http://www.dpreview.com/products/co...200&products=nikon_d5500&products=nikon_d7200

FOR ME, there is not enough difference between the D5200 and the D5500 that would make me pull the trigger. When looking at the D7200, I definitely see a few things that would want me to upgrade. The 51 point of AF vs 39 and the increase in burst speed. There are a few others, but those stick out for me.

You didn't mention if cost was a factor because there is a $400 difference between the D5500 and the D7200. However, in my opinion, you get what you pay for. If you need to upgrade then upgrade to something that will allow you to grow as a photographer.

 

[sharona]

What is it that you're trying to do that the 5200 can't accomplish?

Oops, Gianna's Papa beat me to it on that one. I will add that the 7200 is missing my favorite feature on the 5X00 series - the adjustable live view screen. That is a real back and knee saver for me. And it is heavier if that makes a difference to you - it does for me.

 

[fairy oma]

I have very small hands and while I would love something in the 7000 series it is just not a comfortable grip for me and the weight is also an issue.

I agree about the adjustable live view screen being a back and knee saver, it also helps a height shortened person to take a picture over their head.
I like the fact that the live view switches off automatically when you look thru the viewfinder and wifi is built in (I hate travelling with all of those accessories). They have also increased the number of pictures that can be taken before switching out batteries substantially.

 

[sharona]

I have a 5100 so for me, that upgrade would be worth it. More MPs, wifi, more focus points, newer sensor..

But, like with cars, I refuse to pay the premium for new. I'll probably buy a refurbished 5300 to get the MPs, wifi and focus points. I've gotten most of my equipment used or refurb and it's all been A+

 

[xlxo]

My thoughts...

• skip the D5500 as there not much difference
• think instead on the D7200. If the grip is too small... add a vertical grip
• budget for the D750 for full frame for nirvana

 

[havoc315]

In terms of one's photography, the D5500 certainly isn't a big upgrade. And yes, personally, I'd spend a little more and get the D7200. The prices just aren't that different.
But that ignores the point --- Looking at it as a camera to be used and owned by a non-photographer... Someone who intends to just have a lens or two, have some fun, post some pics on facebook... Looking for a fun camera... The fully articulating touch screen on the D5500 can be very enticing.
So for some types of users, I can see the D5500 simply being more fun than the other models.

 

[fairy oma]

I appreciate the input on the D7000 series but it is just to heavy for comfort in my small hands. I have tried using my DIL's Canon 70D and have the same issue. When I am not limited by plane travel my favorite camera is still my D90, I know it is an old model but it is still my favorite camera and when we went to Alaska some of my best shots of the whales and other wildlife was with the D90 and my 70-300mm. Thank you all for your comments.

 

[SkaGoat]

I have a Nikon D5200 and have been looking at pulling the trigger on a D5500. I have read all of the reviews on the D5500 and have been relatively pleased with what I am seeing. I have a multitude of Nikkor lenses so would only be buying the camera body. My walk around lens for WDW is usually the 18-200mm, with the 35mm f/1.8, and the 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 in my bag.

Any opinions would be appreciated.

I definitely don't think it's a big enough upgrade to go from D5200, to D5500.

 

[jec6613]

You'd be basically buying a touchscreen, some newer software, and a bigger grip ... which you don't like on the D7x00 series. And paying nearly full price ... I'd say no as well. From a D5100 it's barely worth the jump, even.

If you wanted to upgrade, a Nikon Df may be a better choice for you if size is an issue. Also, the D750 has a deeper but thinner grip than the D7x00 series, that feels much like the D5500 - but you'd have to feel it to believe it. Some (not many) Best Buy stores will have one on display, or a local camera store can help you there.