If you’re new to a camera system it can take some work getting used to a new brand’s jargon and classifications for its products. Like other manufacturers, Nikon has a full range of cameras from entry-level on up to professional in spec, but knowing which Nikon cameras are full frame and which are APS-C format might not be readily apparent.
In this quick buyer’s guide we’ll explain what Nikon cameras are FX format for those who may be unfamiliar with the hierarchy of a new system. But first, let’s explain the key to navigating Nikon’s range…
What is Nikon FX vs DX format?
Nikon labels its full frame cameras under the FX moniker, while all of its APS-C format cameras are easily identified as DX format.
There is a third format, however: with the mirrorless Nikon 1 system the company introduced the CX format image sensor.
Nikon’s full-frame FX-format cameras are traditionally aimed at professionals and advanced enthusiasts. However, the introduction of the D600 and its replacement, the D610, have been billed as ‘entry-level full frame’.
Why shoot full frame?
If you’re on the fence about buying a full frame camera or simply don’t know what the fuss is all about, a full frame camera typically offers more resolution. A full frame image sensor is the same size as a 35mm frame of film – hence the name ‘full frame’ – and produces a higher quality image than what’s called a ‘crop sensor’ (sensors smaller than a 35mm frame of film).
A full frame camera will also generally capture a wider range of tones in your scenes and deliver a better performance in low light thanks to its performance at high sensitivity (ISO) settings.
However, it must be said that some APS-C sensors, such as Fuji’s X Trans sensor, capture images that can rival full frame quality. For more information, check out our guides on full-frame vs APS-C sensors, when to use APS-C lenses over full-frame and understanding camera sensor size.
For a deeper dive into the many different camera types and features available, check out our range of camera buying guides.
What current Nikon cameras are full frame
The current list of Nikon full frame cameras includes:
Nikon D5
Date announced: 5th Jan 2016
Price at launch: £5,199.99/$6,499 (body only
Sensor size: Full-frame (35.9 x 23.9mm)
Effective pixel count: 20.8 million
Nikon D750
Nikon D750Date announced: 12th Sept 2014
Price at launch: £1,800/$2,296 (body only)
Sensor size: Full-frame (35.9 x 24mm)
Effective pixel count: 24.3 million
Nikon D810
Nikon D810Date announced: 26th June 2014
Price at launch: £2,699.99/$3,299.95 (body only)
Sensor size: Full-frame (35.9 x 24mm)
Effective pixel count: 36.3 million
Nikon Df
Nikon DfDate announced: 5th November 2013
Price at launch: £2,749 / $2,749.95 (body only)
Sensor size: Full frame (36 x 23.9mm)
Effective pixel count: 16.2 million
Nikon D610
Nikon D610Date announced: 8th Oct 2013
Price at launch: £2,299.99/$2,599.95 (body only)
Sensor size: Full-frame (35.9 x 24mm)
Effective pixel count: 24.3 million
What non-current Nikon cameras are full frame
Non-current FX-format Nikon cameras include the
- Nikon D600
- Nikon D800
- Nikon D800E
- Nikon D4
- Nikon D3S
- Nikon D3X
- Nikon D3
- Nikon D700