That's right folks, Nikon has finally officially announced the D5200 in the USA. The camera is set to start shipping at the end of the January 2013. There are three options:
D5200 body only - $800 USD
D5200 w/18-55mm kit - $900 USD
D5200 w/18-105mm kit - $1100 USD.
The pricing is in line with Nikon's usual pricing of the D5X00 series cameras, the only Nikon cameras available with a Vari-Angle articulated LCD.
The The D5100 is available right now for super-low discount prices, but before you go snatching one up take a look at what the D5200 offers over the D5100 and some of the others as well.
- 24MP sensor. The D5200 is confirmed to have a brand new sensor designed by Nikon manufactured by Toshiba. The first Toshiba chips to make an appearance in a Nikon DSLR (formerly chips were all made by Sony). So far the IQ is very impressive. Better than the 24MP D3200.
- Multi-CAM 4800 DX Focus module. The D5200 inherits the semi-pro 39-point AF module from the more expensive D7000. Focusing is much faster and more accurate than on the D5100 especially when paired with a fast aperture lens like the 35mm f/1.8G
- EXPEED 3. The D5200 is the first camera in Nikon's non-professional series to get the great EXPEED 3 image processor. This means faster processing times, more accurate colors, and less high ISO noise. The EXPEED 3 processor was only available in Nikon's high-end FX cameras until now.
- 2016 pixel RGB metering sensor. A major upgrade from the D5100's 420 pixel RGB sensor this new sensor ensures much more accurate metering for spot-on exposures in most situations.
- Built-in stereo mic. A first on the D5200, Nikon includes a stereo microphone right integrated to the camera.
While the D5200 may appear very similar to the D5100 inside it's an all new camera. A worthy upgrade from the D5100 and even a good backup camera for many part-time pros.
I think this will be a great second camera for videographers using the Nikon system. The Vari-Angle LCD will make it easy to get B-roll footage and shots from odd angles and in confined spaces without the need of a bulky external monitor and a cage system to attach it to.
To pre-order my Nikon D5200 Digital Field Guide from Amazon click on the link in the sidebar.