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Nikon D90 Specs and Scores

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery
Nikon D90
44%
General
44%
Price
Brand
Nikon
Model
D90
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2008
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
August 27, 2008
Camera Type
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Nikon D90 earns a score of 44/100, reflecting its general specifications. Launched in 2008 with a price of $1235, this DSLR camera measures 132 x 103 x 77mm and weighs 703g (1.55lbs). While the D90’s specifications may have been competitive in its release year, they struggle to stand out in today’s market.

Despite its age, the Nikon D90 remains a reliable option for some photography enthusiasts. However, the camera’s specifications may not satisfy the needs of modern photographers seeking advanced features and capabilities.

Nikon D90 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D90 receives an optics score of 46/100. With 12.3 megapixels and a shooting speed of 4.5 frames per second, it is equipped with a CMOS sensor and an Expeed processor. The DXOMARK sensor score stands at 73, which is relatively low compared to today’s market standards.

This camera has an APS-C sensor size and uses the Nikon F DX lens mount. However, it lacks image stabilization, which can be a drawback for some users. The aspect ratio of the Nikon D90 is 3:2, which is standard for most DSLR cameras.

Considering the current market, the Nikon D90 falls behind in terms of optics specifications. While it may have been competitive during its release, it now struggles to keep up with the advancements in camera technology.

Optics
Optics
46%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
12.3 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4288 x 2848 px
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOS
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.
15.8 x 23.6 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.
4.5 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.
Expeed
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.
3,200
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.
100
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.
6400
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.
11
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 (pentaprism)

Nikon D90 Video Performance

Video
Video
43%
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max Video Resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Standard HD
Max Video Dimensions
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1280 x 720 px
Max Video Frame Rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
24 p
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.
Video File Format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MOV

Nikon D90 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D90’s feature score stands at 41/100. The camera has a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 920,000 dots. However, it lacks modern features such as a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity.

In today’s market, the D90’s specifications may not meet the expectations of some users who desire advanced features and seamless integration with their smartphones and other devices. The absence of a touchscreen and flip screen can limit the ease of use and versatility for various shooting scenarios. Additionally, the lack of GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth restricts location tagging and wireless transfer of images.

Despite these limitations, the Nikon D90 still delivers solid performance and image quality. Potential buyers should consider their specific needs and priorities when deciding on a camera.

Features
Features
41%
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
3"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
920,000 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 D90 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D90’s storage and battery receive a score of 37/100. This camera has one memory card slot that accepts SD and SDHC cards. In today’s market, having a single memory card slot may be limiting for photographers who require ample storage space or prefer the security of having a backup card.

The D90 has a battery life of 850 shots, powered by an EN-EL3e battery. While this number of shots per charge is decent, it falls short compared to some modern cameras that offer longer-lasting batteries. The Nikon D90 does not support USB charging, which can be an inconvenience for on-the-go photographers who want to recharge their camera using portable power sources.

The storage and battery specifications of the Nikon D90 are modest and may not meet the needs of photographers in the current market, who demand more advanced features and longer battery life.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
37%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL3e
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
850 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
73%
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.'
22.7 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.'
12.5 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'
977
Scores
User Scores
B&H photo video

Nikon D90 Alternatives

Do you want to know how the Nikon D90 compares to its competitors? Have a look at the most popular comparisons for this camera below:

Nikon D90 photographed on a colored background

Nikon D90 FAQ

Does the Nikon D90 Have Built-in Image Stabilization?

The Nikon D90 does not have built-in image stabilization. However, it is compatible with Nikon lenses that feature Vibration Reduction (VR) technology, which provides image stabilization.

Does the Nikon D90 Support 4K Video Recording?

The Nikon D90 does not support 4K video recording. It is capable of recording 720p HD video at 24 frames per second, but not 4K resolution.

What Size Sensor Does The Nikon D90 Have?

The Nikon D90 is equipped with an APS-C sized sensor, specifically a 23.6 x 15.8mm CMOS sensor with 12.3 effective megapixels.

Does the Nikon D90 Have a Dual Memory Card Slot?

The Nikon D90 features a single memory card slot, which supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards.

Does the Nikon D90 Have a Touch Screen?

No, the Nikon D90 does not have a touch screen. It has a 3-inch fixed LCD screen with 920,000 dots for image review and menu navigation.

Does the Nikon D90 Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

The Nikon D90 does not have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. However, you can use an optional wireless transmitter for remote control and image transfer.

Does the Nikon D90 Have GPS?

No, the Nikon D90 does not have built-in GPS functionality. You can use an optional GPS adapter for geotagging your images.

Is the Nikon D90 Weather Sealed?

The Nikon D90 is not fully weather-sealed, but it does have a durable construction with some weather resistance to protect against minor moisture and dust.

Does the Nikon D90 Have a Built-in Flash?

Yes, the Nikon D90 has a built-in pop-up flash with a guide number of 17 meters (56 feet) at ISO 200, useful for fill flash and low-light situations.

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