Discover the Amazing Features of the Nikon D40X: A Review

The Nikon D40X is a professional-level camera that promises amazing image quality, a user-friendly interface, and a compact design. In this review, we'll explore the top features of the Nikon D40X and why it's a great camera for seasoned photographers and beginners alike.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Nikon D40X article cover photo

Key Features

May 27 2007

Announced

10 megapixels

Resolution

BrandNikon
Sensor TypeAPS-C
SensorCCD
Weight522g
MSRP$799USD

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Overview of the D40X

When it comes to photography, having the right equipment is essential. One of the most important pieces of equipment is the camera, and the Nikon D40X is a great choice for professionals and amateurs alike. This sleek and compact camera promises the ability to take stunning high-resolution images, along with an easy-to-use interface. In this article, we'll be exploring the features that make the Nikon D40X an incredible camera for all levels of photographers. So, let's dive in and explore everything the Nikon D40X has to offer.

Nikon D40X Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Nikon D40X 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

Good image quality
Affordable price
Fast Autofocus
Good low light performance
Compact and lightweight
Nikon F-mount compatibility
Raw file support

Cons

No image stabilization
Limited ISO range
No built-in focus motor
Small display screen
No video capabilities
Limited customization options
Limited lens selection

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Nikon D40X

Weather sealed
Dimensions124 x 94 x 64mm
Weight522g
Thickness64mm
Weight
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Max
Thickness
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Weather Sealing

The Nikon D40X is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderOptical (pentamirror)
Screen TypeFixed Type
Screen Resolution230k dots
Body typeCompact 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 230k dots. This makes the Nikon D40X 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

D40X includes a optical (pentamirror) viewfinder with no electronic viewfinder of resolution with a coverage of 95% and a magnification of 0.53x. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Nikon D40X has a 10MP sized CCD sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 10 pixels. Nikon D40X has a native ISO range of 100 - 1600 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

May 27 2007

Announced

100 - 1600

ISO Range

SensorAPS-C
Extended ISOnull - 3200
Max resolution3872 x 2592 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

63 / 102

Color Depth

22.4 / 26.5

Dynamic Range

11.4 / 14.8

Low Light ISO

516 / 4505

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Nikon D40X 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 D40X 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

StorageSD/SDHC card
Battery Life
Battery ModelEN-EL9
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Nikon D40X supports SD/SDHC card 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 D40X uses the EN-EL9 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 D40X has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. It also offers a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.

Shutter

The Nikon D40X boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/4000s, 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 D40X includes phase detection autofocus (AF), with 3 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 D40X?

The Nikon D40X features a CCD sensor

Is the Nikon D40X weather sealed?

No the D40X does not have weather sealing.

When was the Nikon D40X announced?

The Nikon D40X was announced on May 27 2007

Does the Nikon D40X have in-body image stabilization?

No the D40X 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 D40X?

The D40X has a native ISO range of 100-1600, which can be expanded to ISO null-3200 for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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