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Nikon camera users say third-party batteries don't work after firmware update
Nikon released a firmware update for its D3100, D3200, D5100, D5200 and Coolpix P7700 cameras during November, which only seemed to change how battery life was measured for a specific pack (the EN-EL14a, if you were wondering). Well, that's what the patch notes would have us believe, anyway, but according to some owners who've updated, the new version also stops those cameras working with third-party batteries. This isn't the first time a camera maker has used code to block unofficial power packs, and it'll no doubt irritate those who've passed on Nikon's $41 (EN-EL14) or $60 (EN-EL14a) spares in favor of cheaper options missing a logo. There doesn't appear to be any way to roll back the firmware version, so if you hadn't gotten round to updating yet, you might want to reconsider. We've reached out to Nikon for comment, and if we find out exactly what's buried within the unassuming update, we'll fill you in right here.
Engadget's summer gear guide 2012: cameras
In the interest of keeping cool this summer, we've put together a list of the hottest products out right now. From smartphones to e-readers and everything in between, there's no time like the present to re-up that post-spring-cleaning stash. So grab a popsicle or a cold one and dive in -- the water's just right. Of all the seasons when you could have bought a new camera, you had to pick summer? When the sun casts its harshest shadows, when thieves go wild over tourists with Lowepros, and when springtime puddles are still such a heavily neglected subject on Twitpic? Oh well, since you're here, our topic for today is cameras that cost a bit of money -- specifically, $199 and up -- but which murder camera-equipped phones on every spec that matters. Perhaps the only area in which the latest smartphones can still contend with our choices is wireless connectivity for the quick sharing of pictures, but as you'll see, dedicated cameras are catching up in that department too. Enough chatting, let's get to the picks that wait past the break.
Nikon offers cashback on D3100, D5100 and D7000 in the UK and Ireland
If you're still poring over the specs of Nikon's current DSLR consumer models, then you've managed to dally just long enough to snag a tidy cashback offer. At least, that's if you're in the UK or Ireland and can make your purchase before the end of May. Nikon has confirmed to us that this is a local promotion, but we're on the case to see if a similar deal is coming to the States. In the meantime, these discounts range from £30 ($50) on the D3100, £50 ($80) on the flip-screen D5100 (shown above) and £80 ($130) on the D7000 when purchased body-only, or slightly more if you pick up a Nikkor lens at the same time. On the other hand, if you're casting about more generally for a kit upgrade, and if you can bear to stall just a little longer, then this could potentially hint at new models coming soon -- although it's not the first cashback offer to hit this range. You'll find further details after the break.
How would you change Nikon's D5100?
It's been a long, long while since Nikon's full-frame stable saw a refresh, but the company's been keeping it clicking down at the low and mid-range. Take the D5100, for example -- for $900, it offers up a fairly stout set of specifications, but as with everything else, we're certain those that bought in have a thing or two to say after a summer's worth of shooting. So, let's have it! Are you satisfied with the quality of the 1080p movie mode? How's that low-light performance? Is the construction solid enough for your clumsy hands? Are you feeling the burn with no built-in AF motor? Go on and nitpick in comments below -- mama always said her kids deserved to be heard.
Nikon's D5100 impresses, captures children's birthday parties with incredible clarity
We're not the only site to put Nikon's new mid-range DSLR through its paces. Plenty of others have taken the D5100 for a spin and we thought you might like to know: they're all pretty impressed. The new 1080p30 video mode was much appreciated as was the larger, higher resolution swivel screen around back. The biggest props generally went to the improved high-ISO performance (which was already quite respectable on the D5000 it's replacing) and the boost in autofocus speed, especially when using the LCD as a view finder in Live View mode. Oddly, the built-in effects also garnered a lot of attention. The Miniature Effect (a tilt-shift simulator) and Selective Color mode impressed reviewers the most with their surprising level of sophistication for in-camera processing. All of the effects can also be used when shooting video, so you can make your HD footage look like black and white 8mm by turning on Night Vision. Criticisms were relatively minor and applicable to most mid- and entry-level DSLRs -- primarily that the body is plasticy and there is a slight lag in focus and shutter performance. The D5100 is an obvious upgrade over the D5000 and more than holds its own against its competitors, but if you want to dig deeper check out our review and the ones below. Read - DPReview Read - Photography Blog Read - CNET Read - Nikon Rumors Read - Pocket-Lint Read - Pocket-Lint (2)
Nikon D5100 impressions, head-to-head with D7000
Nikon has stirred up the camera crowds once again with its newly released D5100, filling the industry with the buzz of a new high-resolution articulating screen. In terms of consumer DSLR options, the D5100 has taken on the role of the mid-range model in Nikon's product line between the D3100 and the D7000 and we think it assumes the part rather nicely. In terms of price, the D5100 fits right in as well, fetching an MSRP of $900 (vs. $700 and $1600, respectively for the two aforementioned camera kits). Of course, the D7000 lands you the better 18-105 f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR lens, a larger and brighter viewfinder, built-in focus motor, weather-proof sealing, and a few other internal upgrades. But don't judge too quickly, because we've had some time to play with Nikon's latest creation and the D5100 can certainly shoot along with the big boys of consumer cameras -- read on past the break for our impressions and comparisons with the D7000. %Gallery-121549%
Nikon D5100 gets the iFixit teardown treatment, camera status confirmed
We've seen plenty of tablets go under the spudger at the iFixit teardown labs, but seldom has a DSLR been gently gutted and photographed for all to see. Today's victim is the $900 Nikon D5100, which just hit stores last week. After popping out the battery (the D5100's only user-serviceable component), the engineers removed the motherboard, 16.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, and everything else they could get their hands on, even going so far as to desolder some wires. The verdict? The camera is very difficult to disassemble -- perhaps because "approximately 4 billion screws hold the device together." Teardowns are arguably more fun than unboxings (trust us, we know), so hit the link below for more camera-in-the-buff shots.
Nikon D5100 kit hits Best Buy shelves early, still costs $900
Eagerly waiting for some swivel screen action on the upcoming Nikon D5100? Well friend, you just got lucky, as said camera has just hit the shelves of Best Buy a few days early. The mid-range DSLR kit is now up for grabs either online or in stores for $900, but we expect Nikon to start shipping body-only options soon after -- Amazon and Adorama are already taking pre-orders for $800. Unfortunately, it looks like the accompanying ME-1 external mic won't be here until the original April 21st launch (or so we hope), but we're sure all Nikonians will be just fine without it over the next four days. Now go check out your local Best Buy to nab one of these swivelicious cameras.
Nikon D5100 and ME-1 external mic coming April 21st, we go hands-on (video)
Okay, so Nikon kind of spoiled the surprise with this one, but we can now enlighten you with the full details of its upcoming midrange (or "advanced beginner" as Nikon calls it) DSLR refresh. The D5100 takes the spot of the venerable D5000, but follows the previous generation's recipe for success pretty closely. The D5000 was a stripped-down D90 in a simpler, smaller package that came with an articulating LCD, and the D5100 just so happens to feature the same mighty 16.2 megapixel sensor as the D7000 (Nikon's current high-end consumer DSLR) augmented with a flipout screen. Having the D7000's internals helps the new shooter churn out 1080p video at 24fps, 25fps, or 30fps, depending on your preference for up to a maximum of 20 minutes. The D5000 is only capable of five-minute bursts of 720/24p video and isn't able to continually autofocus, which the D5100 can. The D5100 also betters its predecessor in terms of physical fitness, coming in at a healthy 10 percent lighter and smaller, while a good number of the physical controls have been repositioned in order to allow for a new horizontal opening mechanism. That'll be a well appreciated tweak for tripod users. The new screen's also 17 percent thinner, we're told, and steps up to a 3-inch diagonal with a 920k-dot resolution. Solid stuff. After the break you'll find a full spec sheet along with some video action with the D5100. Pricing for this camera is set at $800 / €777 / £670 for the body only or $900 / €904 / £780 for the body plus an 18-55mm VR kit lens. The ME-1 external mic introduced alongside it -- did we not mention the D5100 has an external mic input -- will cost $180 / €139 / £120 and both are expected in stores on April 21st. %Gallery-120375% %Gallery-120376% %Gallery-120374%
Nikon D5100 DSLR surfaces with 16.2 megapixel sensor, 1080p video recording
Been waiting for a new Nikon DSLR to slide in under that magical $1,000 mark? Then we've got some good news for you, as Digital Home Thoughts has now let slip some official details and pictures of Nikon's new prosumer D5100 model. This one steps things up to a D7000-matching 16.2 megapixels from the 12 megapixel D5000, and boasts a 3-inch articulated display (side-mounted this time), 1080p video recording at both 30 and 24 fps (with autofocus!), ISO settings from 100 to 6,400, and an 18-105mm lens included in the kit (no body-only option available just yet, it seems). What's more, Nikon's also releasing a new ME-1 microphone alongside the camera to let you take full advantage of those video recording capabilities -- check it out after the break. Look for this one to set you back $899.95 for the kit, with the mic running $159.95. Those are Canadian prices according to Digital Home Thoughts, though we'd expect US pricing to be the same.
