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Nikon D40 Specs and Scores

Optics
Features
Storage & Battery
Nikon D40
28%
General
28%
Price
Brand
Nikon
Model
D40
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2006
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
November 16, 2006
Camera Type
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Nikon D40 holds a score of 28/100, which is relatively low in today’s competitive market. Announced on November 16, 2006, this DSLR camera was released at a price of $400. The camera measures 124 x 94 x 64mm and weighs 522g or 1.15lbs, making it a compact and lightweight option for its time. However, considering the advancements in camera technology since its release, the D40’s specifications may not stand up to current expectations.

Nikon D40 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D40 receives a score of 33/100 for its optics. With a 6-megapixel resolution, the camera has a relatively low pixel count compared to modern cameras. Its shooting speed of 2.5 frames per second is considerably slower than contemporary models, limiting its ability to capture fast-moving subjects.

The D40 employs a CCD sensor, which is now considered outdated technology, as most current cameras use CMOS sensors. Its Nikon Image processing engine is responsible for processing the images taken. The DXOMARK sensor score of 56 is also quite low compared to newer camera models. The camera has an APS-C sensor size and a Nikon F DX lens mount, which allows compatibility with a range of Nikon lenses. However, the D40 lacks image stabilization, making it challenging to capture sharp images without a tripod or steady hand. The aspect ratio of 3:2 is standard for most digital cameras.

Given these specifications, the Nikon D40’s performance in today’s market is underwhelming. Its low megapixel count, outdated sensor technology, and lack of image stabilization make it less competitive among modern cameras. While it may have been a decent choice in the past, there are now numerous superior options available for photographers.

Optics
Optics
33%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
6 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
3008 x 2000 px
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CCD
Sensor Size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
16 x 24 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-C
Frame Rate
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
2.5 fps
Lens Mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Nikon F DX
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Nikon Image processing engine
Aspect Ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
200
Maximum ISO (Native)
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
1,600
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
200
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
3200
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
1/ 4000 s
Autofocus Points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
3
In-body Stabilization
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder Type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentamirror)

Nikon D40 Video Performance

The Nikon D40 lacks video capabilities. This camera only takes still images. No video functionality exists in the D40.

Video
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Time-Lapse Built In
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.

Nikon D40 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D40’s features score is a mere 17 out of 100, reflecting the camera’s basic offerings compared to modern options. This camera has a 2.5-inch screen with a resolution of 230,000 dots, lacking the clarity and size of contemporary camera screens. It does not offer a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WiFi, or Bluetooth capabilities.

In today’s market, the Nikon D40 falls short in the features department. The absence of a touchscreen, flip screen, and wireless connectivity options makes it less versatile and user-friendly than newer models. Its small screen size and low resolution also hinder the user experience, making image review and menu navigation more challenging.

The Nikon D40’s low feature score and outdated specifications make it a less desirable option for photographers seeking modern conveniences and advanced capabilities. It is essential to consider these limitations when evaluating the camera’s suitability for one’s needs.

Features
Features
17%
Built-in Flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External Flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather Sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen Type
LCD
Touch Screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen Size
2.5"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
230,000 dots
Flip Screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live View
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.

Nikon D40 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D40’s storage and battery score is a low 27 out of 100. The camera has one memory card slot, accepting SD and SDHC cards. In today’s market, this is quite limiting as many cameras now offer dual slots and compatibility with a wider range of memory card types.

With a battery life of 470 shots, the D40 uses an EN-EL9 battery type and does not support USB charging. This battery life falls short compared to modern cameras that offer longer-lasting batteries and convenient charging options.

Considering these specifications, the Nikon D40’s storage and battery capabilities are not up to par with current standards. This may deter potential buyers who require more advanced features for their photography needs.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
27%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL9
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
470 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
56%
Portrait (Color Depth)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.'
21 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.'
11 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better'
561
Scores
User Scores
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