Nikon D2X Camera Review: A High-Performing Camera for Professional Photographers

If you're looking for a high-performing camera with advanced features and image quality, the Nikon D2X may be the perfect choice for you. This camera is designed specifically for professional photographers who demand the best possible performance and image quality. In this review, we'll take a closer look at the features and capabilities of the Nikon D2X and explore why it's considered one of the best cameras in its class.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Nikon D2X article cover photo

Key Features

Jun 01 2005

Announced

12 megapixels

Resolution

BrandNikon
Sensor TypeAPS-C
SensorCMOS
Weight1200g
MSRP$4999USD

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Released Jun 01 2006 | 12MP resolution

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Nikon D1X

Released Jun 29 2001 | 5MP resolution

Overview of the D2X

Professional photographers know that the quality of their camera plays a critical role in the success of their work. This is why the Nikon D2X is such a popular camera among professionals. With advanced features such as a 12.4-megapixel sensor, fast autofocus, and a durable body, the D2X is designed to meet the demands of even the most demanding photographers. If you're considering this camera for your own needs, keep reading to learn more about its features and capabilities.

Nikon D2X Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Nikon D2X camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

High resolution images
Fast autofocus
Durable design
Reliable performance
Wide ISO range

Cons

Heavy weight
Expensive
Limited video capabilities
Outdated technology
Small buffer size

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Nikon D2X

Weather sealed
Dimensions158 x 150 x 86mm
Weight1200g
Thickness86mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
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Max

Weather Sealing

The Nikon D2X camera is equipped with environmental seals that make it resistant to weather, preventing water and dust from entering the camera. If you enjoy outdoor photography and need a camera that can handle extreme conditions, the D2X is an excellent choice.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderOptical (pentaprism)
Screen TypeFixed Type
Screen Resolution235k dots
Body typeLarge SLR

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 2.50" screen, with a display resolution of 235k dots. This makes the Nikon D2X not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

D2X includes a optical (pentaprism) viewfinder with no electronic viewfinder of resolution with a coverage of 100% and a magnification of 0.57x. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Nikon D2X has a 12MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 12 pixels. Nikon D2X has a native ISO range of 100 - 800 which can be boosted to null - 3200. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.

Key Features

Jun 01 2005

Announced

100 - 800

ISO Range

SensorAPS-C
Extended ISOnull - 3200
Max resolution4288 x 2848 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

59 / 102

Color Depth

22.1 / 26.5

Dynamic Range

10.9 / 14.8

Low Light ISO

476 / 4505

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Nikon D2X camera has above average color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also average, allowing it to retain low amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is poor, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the D2X is below average

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: APS-C

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageCompact Flash (Type I or II)
Battery Life
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Nikon D2X supports Compact Flash (Type I or II) with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Nikon D2X uses the undefined model of undefined. This is rated for undefined shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Nikon D2X does not have a built-in flash, but it does offer a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.

Shutter

The Nikon D2X boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/8000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Nikon D2X includes phase detection autofocus (AF), with null number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Nikon D2X?

The Nikon D2X features a CMOS sensor

Is the Nikon D2X weather sealed?

Yes the D2X does have weather sealing.

When was the Nikon D2X announced?

The Nikon D2X was announced on Jun 01 2005

Does the Nikon D2X have in-body image stabilization?

No the D2X does not have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Nikon D2X?

The D2X has a native ISO range of 100-800, which can be expanded to ISO null-3200 for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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