Nikon D1 DSLR Camera
The Nikon D1 is a 2.7MP APS-C DSLR camera — known for its 2.7MP APS-C Sensor and 4.5 fps Burst Mode. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon D1 DSLR Camera
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Overview — Nikon D1
Key Features — Nikon D1
2.7MP APS-C Sensor: Delivers a maximum image size of 2000x1312 pixels, representing one of the first professional-grade digital sensors Nikon produced.
4.5 fps Burst Mode: Continuous shooting at 4.5 frames per second made the D1 a viable tool for sports and press photographers at its launch.
Phase Detection Autofocus: 5-point phase detection AF system provides reliable subject acquisition for a camera of its generation.
ISO 200–1600 Range: Covers a workable sensitivity spread for shooting in varied lighting conditions without switching cameras.
Magnesium Alloy Body: Robust professional construction with weather sealing, suitable for use in demanding field conditions.
Optical Pentaprism Viewfinder: Provides a direct optical sightline for accurate framing without electronic lag.
Specifications — Nikon D1
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | DSLR |
| Sensor | APS-C |
| Resolution | 2.7MP |
| Processor | ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) |
| ISO Range | 200 – 1600 |
| AF System | Phase Detection |
| AF Points | 5 points |
| Max Photo Resolution | 2000x1312 |
| Burst Rate | 4.5 fps |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Display | 2.0 inches Fixed LCD |
| Display Resolution | 120,000 dots |
Description — Nikon D1
The Nikon D1 is a professional DSLR built on an APS-C sensor with 2.7MP resolution, producing stills at up to 2000x1312 pixels. The camera's ASIC image processor works alongside a Phase Detection autofocus system featuring 5 focus points, delivering responsive acquisition for professional shooting situations. With a maximum burst rate of 4.5 fps, the D1 is equipped to handle fast-action scenarios.
Sensitivity spans ISO 200 to 1600, and color output modes include Standard and Monochrome profiles. The body is built from magnesium alloy with weather sealing, measuring 157 x 153 x 85 mm at a weight of 1,100g — a solid, field-ready construction. Composing images is handled through an optical pentaprism viewfinder, complemented by a 2.0-inch fixed LCD with 120,000 dots for image review.
Storage relies on CompactFlash media. Power comes from the Nikon EN-4 Ni-MH battery, rated at approximately 1,200 shots per charge. The flash system is manual only, and no wireless connectivity is available.
Pros — Nikon D1
- ✓Burst mode reaches 4.5 fps, enabling continuous shooting sequences
- ✓Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body provides durability in demanding conditions
- ✓ISO range of 200–1600 offers a usable sensitivity spread for varied lighting
Cons — Nikon D1
- ✗2.7MP sensor resolution is very limited by modern standards, restricting large-format output
- ✗No video recording capability — all video spec fields are null
- ✗No image stabilization of any kind — neither in-body nor digital
Reviews — Nikon D1
- Nikon D1 Review
DPReview · unknown - Revisiting the D1, Nikons First DSLR, 23 Years Later
PetaPixel · 2022-08-30 - Nikon D1 Digital Camera Review: Intro and Highlights
Imaging Resource · 2000-05-13 - How the Nikon D1 started Nikons digital transition
Digital Camera World · unknown - Nikon D1: 23 YEARS later! RETRO review of Nikon's FIRST DSLR
Dino Bytes by Gordon Laing - Nikon D1 Review & Sample Photos: Can a 2.6-megapixel DSLR from 1999 Hold its own Twenty Years Later?
David Hancock
Videos — Nikon D1
DPReview TV: A look back at the Canon 1D and Nikon D1H — DPReview TV