Nikon D60 Review: An In-Depth Look at This DSLR Camera

If you're in the market for a DSLR camera that delivers great image quality, is easy to use, and won't break the bank, then the Nikon D60 is definitely worth considering. This camera comes with a range of features that make it a popular choice for both novice and professional photographers alike.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Nikon D60 article cover photo

Key Features

Mar 19 2008

Announced

10 megapixels

Resolution

BrandNikon
Sensor TypeAPS-C
SensorCCD
Weight522g
MSRP$750USD

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Overview of the D60

When it comes to DSLR cameras, Nikon has been a go-to brand for many photographers. And one of their most popular models is the Nikon D60. Released in 2008, this camera may be over a decade old, but it still has a lot to offer. Its 10.2-megapixel sensor, 3D Color Matrix Metering II system, and in-camera editing features ensure that you get high-quality images that are ready to be shared with the world. In this review, we take a closer look at the Nikon D60, exploring its key features, pros and cons, and overall performance. Whether you're a beginner or a professional photographer, we'll help you decide if this camera is the right choice for you.

Nikon D60 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Nikon D60 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
Easy to use interface
Compatible with a variety of lenses
Good battery life
Low noise in low light conditions
Fast autofocus system

Cons

No video recording option
No built-in image stabilization
Limited ISO range
No autofocus motor in the camera body
Lack of advanced features compared to newer models
No wireless connectivity options

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Nikon D60

Weather sealed
Dimensions126 x 94 x 64mm
Weight522g
Thickness64mm
Weight
Min
Avg
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Max
Thickness
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Max

Weather Sealing

The Nikon D60 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 D60 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

D60 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 D60 has a 10MP sized CCD sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 10 pixels. Nikon D60 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

Mar 19 2008

Announced

100 - 1600

ISO Range

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

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

65 / 102

Color Depth

22.5 / 26.5

Dynamic Range

11.4 / 14.8

Low Light ISO

562 / 4505

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Nikon D60 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 D60 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/MMC/SDHC card
Battery Life500 shots
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Nikon D60 supports SD/MMC/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 D60 uses the undefined model of battery pack. This is rated for 500 shots 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 D60 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 D60 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 D60 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 D60?

The Nikon D60 features a CCD sensor

Is the Nikon D60 weather sealed?

No the D60 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Nikon D60 announced?

The Nikon D60 was announced on Mar 19 2008

Does the Nikon D60 have in-body image stabilization?

No the D60 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 D60?

The D60 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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