When Nikon launched the D300 over two years ago we regarded it as the best APS-C camera yet, thanks to its blend of features, performance and build. A lot has happened in the intervening years – step forward the Nikon D300S…At first glance, even the most avid D-SLR follower will struggle to spot the differences between the Nikon D300 and the new Nikon D300S, as both the build and much of the spec remain the same. The body continues to boast the weather-sealed magnesium alloy chassis, that’s equipped for shooting in all conditions and thankfully keeps the classy non-slip finish of its predecessor. There’s a large, positive handgrip, making it comfortable to use and the intuitive Nikon button layout also stays, making the handling great.
At the heart of the D300S is a 12.3Mp APS-C sensor and it features the same ISO 200-3200 range (expandable to ISO 100-6400), while the 3D Color Matrix II metering system continues to deliver stunning exposures. Quite rightly, Nikon has been lauded for the excellent Multi-CAM3500DX autofocus system, so there was no need for change in this regard. There’s a choice of 9, 21 or 51 selectable AF targets and it remains just as fast and accurate – the best on test.
So where‘s the update? Well, continuous shooting has been upped to 7fps and there’s a new Quiet mode to soften the sound of the shutter, which will be appreciated by snappers who want to go unnoticed. Predictably, the D300S also jumps on the HD video band wagon and while it doesn’t feature full 1080p video capture, 720p/24fps still provide excellent quality videos.
The D-pad is now the same as the one on the D700. It includes a positive centre button and a new Lv button that makes accessing Live View easier than the old method via the main mode dial on the D300.
AT A GLANCEPrice: £1215
Mount: Nikon F
Resolution: 12.3Mp (4288x2848)
HD Video: 1280x720
Focusing: 51-point (15 Cross-type)
Metering: 3D Color Matix II
Rate: 7fps
ISO Range: 100-6400
Image Stabilisation: Lens based
www.nikon.co.uk
