Nikon D300S DSLR Camera
The Nikon D300S is a 12.3MP APS-C DSLR camera — with 720p video. Used copies start from $166.83 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon D300S DSLR Camera
Used Nikon D300S Listings on GearFocus
Overview — Nikon D300S
Key Features — Nikon D300S
12.3MP APS-C CMOS Sensor: Delivers a maximum resolution of 4288x2848 pixels with a 1.5x crop factor, compatible with Nikon's extensive F-mount lens lineup.
51-Point Phase Detection AF: Wide autofocus coverage with subject tracking keeps moving subjects locked in focus across the frame.
7fps Continuous Shooting: High burst rate makes the D300S a capable option for sports and action photography where timing is critical.
Weather-Sealed Magnesium Alloy Body: Robust construction resists dust and moisture, suited for outdoor shooting in demanding conditions.
Dual Card Slots (CF + SD): Accepts both CompactFlash and SD cards simultaneously, enabling overflow recording or direct backup in the field.
ISO 200–3200 Native Range: Covers a solid working range for varied lighting conditions, with expandable sensitivity available beyond the native range.
Specifications — Nikon D300S
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Portrait, Landscape, Sports, Travel, Event |
| Type | DSLR |
| Sensor | APS-C |
| Resolution | 12.3MP |
| Processor | EXPEED |
| ISO Range | 200 – 3200 |
| AF System | Phase Detection |
| AF Points | 51 |
| Max Photo Resolution | 4288x2848 |
| Burst Rate | 7 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 720p |
| Max Frame Rate | 24fps |
Description — Nikon D300S
The Nikon D300S is a weather-sealed APS-C DSLR built on a magnesium alloy body, measuring 147 x 114 x 74mm and weighing 840g. It houses a 12.3MP sensor processed by Nikon's EXPEED engine, producing stills at up to 4288x2848 pixels. The ISO range runs from 200 to 3200, while the 51-point Phase Detection autofocus system with subject tracking handles fast-moving scenes with confidence.
Burst shooting reaches 7fps, making it a capable tool for action-oriented work. The camera accepts both CompactFlash and SD cards, providing flexible dual-format storage. Video recording tops out at 720p at 24fps in 8-bit color, with color profile options of Standard, Neutral, Vivid, and Monochrome shared across stills and video modes.
The rear 3-inch TFT LCD resolves 920k dots, and the optical viewfinder supports traditional framing. Connectivity includes USB, Mini HDMI, and a 3.5mm microphone jack, though Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are absent. The Nikon F mount opens access to a broad lens ecosystem, and the Nikon iTTL hotshoe supports compatible flash units.
The EN-EL3e battery is rated for 950 shots per charge.
Pros — Nikon D300S
- ✓51-point Phase Detection AF system with subject tracking for reliable focus on moving subjects
- ✓7fps maximum burst rate enables effective continuous shooting for action and sports
- ✓Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body offers durability in challenging conditions
Cons — Nikon D300S
- ✗Video limited to 720p at 24fps, which falls short of modern HD or 4K standards
- ✗Native ISO tops out at 3200, limiting low-light flexibility compared to newer cameras
- ✗No in-body image stabilization — stabilization depends entirely on the lens used
Reviews — Nikon D300S
Videos — Nikon D300S
Nikon D300s review — Gordon Laing








