Nikon D90 DSLR Camera
The Nikon D90 is a 12MP APS-C DSLR camera — with 720p video. Used copies start from $149.26 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon D90 DSLR Camera
Used Nikon D90 Listings on GearFocus
Overview — Nikon D90
Key Features — Nikon D90
12MP APS-C CMOS Sensor: Delivers 4288x2848 pixel images with a 1.5x crop factor, paired with Nikon's EXPEED processor for consistent image quality.
11-Point Phase Detection AF: Reliable phase-detection autofocus system with 11 focus points for accurate subject acquisition across a range of shooting situations.
ISO 200–3200 Range: Native sensitivity range runs ISO 200–3200, with ISO 100 and 6400 available as expanded settings outside the native range.
4.5fps Burst Shooting: Continuous shooting at up to 4.5 frames per second makes the D90 a capable option for capturing moving subjects.
720p Video Recording: One of the first DSLRs to offer video recording, capturing HD footage at 720p/24fps using the Motion JPEG codec.
Optical Pentaprism Viewfinder: Provides a bright, accurate optical view of the scene for precise framing and composition.
Specifications — Nikon D90
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel |
| Type | DSLR |
| Sensor | APS-C |
| Resolution | 12MP |
| Processor | EXPEED |
| ISO Range | 200 – 3200 |
| AF System | Phase Detection |
| AF Points | 11-point |
| Max Photo Resolution | 4288x2848 |
| Burst Rate | 4.5 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 720p |
| Max Frame Rate | 24fps |
Description — Nikon D90
The Nikon D90 is a DSLR camera centered on a 12MP APS-C sensor processed by Nikon's EXPEED engine, delivering a maximum image resolution of 4288x2848 pixels. The camera's 11-point phase detection autofocus system provides dependable focus acquisition, while an ISO range of 100–6400 handles a broad range of lighting situations. Continuous shooting reaches up to 4.5 fps, useful for capturing action and fast-moving scenes.
Video recording tops out at 720p at 24fps in Motion JPEG format. Composing shots is handled through a 3.0-inch TFT LCD and an optical pentaprism viewfinder. The magnesium alloy body measures 132 x 103 x 77 mm and weighs 1,133g.
A built-in pop-up flash is included, and storage uses SD and SDHC cards. The camera connects via USB but does not include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Image stabilization is lens-based only, with no in-body IS.
Picture style options cover Standard, Neutral, Vivid, and Monochrome.
Pros — Nikon D90
- ✓11-point phase detection autofocus system delivers reliable focus performance
- ✓ISO range of 100–6400 covers a wide variety of shooting conditions
- ✓4.5 fps burst mode (photoSpecs.maxBurstFrameRate) suits fast-moving subjects
Cons — Nikon D90
- ✗No weather sealing (bodyDesign.weatherSealing: None), limiting use in adverse conditions
- ✗Video limited to 720p at 24fps with Motion JPEG codec, which is restrictive by current standards
- ✗No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity (connectivity.wifi: false, connectivity.bluetooth: false)
Reviews — Nikon D90
Videos — Nikon D90
Nikon D90 review — Gordon Laing
Frequently Asked Questions — Nikon D90
What sensor does the Nikon D90 use?+
The D90 uses a 12MP APS-C sensor paired with the EXPEED image processor. The maximum photo resolution is 4288x2848 pixels.
What is the autofocus system like on the D90?+
The D90 uses a phase detection autofocus system with 11 focus points. Eye tracking and subject tracking are not supported.
Can the Nikon D90 shoot video?+
Yes, the D90 records video at up to 720p resolution at 24fps using the Motion JPEG codec. This is the only frame rate and resolution combination available for video.
Does the D90 have image stabilization built in?+
No, the D90 does not have in-body or digital image stabilization. Any stabilization depends on using a compatible stabilized lens.
What memory cards does the Nikon D90 accept?+
The D90 accepts SD and SDHC memory cards. There is no support for SDXC or other card formats based on the available specifications.
Is the Nikon D90 weather sealed?+
No, the D90 body does not include weather sealing. While it features a magnesium alloy construction, it should be used with caution in wet or dusty environments.