Overview

The Nikon D5500 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm VR II Lens is a versatile and compact digital SLR that delivers exceptional image quality. It features a 24.2MP CMOS sensor and a responsive 39-point autofocus system, making it a reliable choice for both novice photographers and those with more experience. With the included 18-55mm VR II lens, the camera is ready for a variety of shooting conditions, from landscapes to portraits. Built-in Wi-Fi also allows easy sharing of images, making it convenient for on-the-go use.

Features & Benefits

The D5500 camera stands out with its range of features designed to enhance the photography experience. The vari-angle touchscreen makes it easier to shoot from creative angles, while the 5 fps continuous shooting mode ensures you capture fast-moving action. With 1080p HD video recording at 60fps, it’s a solid option for content creators seeking smooth footage. Additionally, the camera’s long-lasting battery offers up to 820 shots per charge, allowing for extended shooting sessions without frequent recharging.

Best For

This Nikon DSLR is best suited for a wide range of users, from amateur photographers to semi-professionals. It is ideal for photography enthusiasts who want to take their skills to the next level, offering a combination of high-quality stills and video. Content creators will appreciate its versatile video features and portability, while travelers will enjoy its compact design. With a lightweight body and intuitive controls, this camera is a great choice for those who want a reliable yet user-friendly option.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the D5500 camera for its impressive image quality and low-light performance, with many noting that it produces sharp, vibrant photos even in challenging conditions. The touchscreen interface is another highlight, providing easy navigation and an intuitive user experience. However, some users mention that the camera body feels a bit small, especially for those with larger hands. Despite this, the camera is highly rated for its portability and convenience, making it a favorite for everyday photographers.

Pros

  • Compact design makes this camera ideal for travelers and on-the-go photographers.
  • The 24.2MP sensor provides sharp, detailed images in a variety of conditions.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi allows for easy sharing and quick uploads of photos and videos.
  • The vari-angle touchscreen is perfect for flexible shooting angles, especially for vlogs.
  • Long-lasting battery can handle up to 820 shots, making it great for extended shoots.
  • Great option for beginners due to its easy-to-use interface and helpful features.

Cons

  • Some users find the body a bit small, which may be uncomfortable for those with larger hands.
  • Lacks 4K video recording, which might be a drawback for some content creators.
  • Build quality is mainly plastic, making it less durable for heavy outdoor use.
  • The autofocus system is good, but it may struggle with fast-moving subjects in certain conditions.
  • No in-body stabilization, which means some users may need a tripod or lens stabilization for steady shots.
  • Limited buffer capacity when shooting in continuous mode, which can impact action photography.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide across multiple languages and platforms, the scores reflect a balanced view of the Nikon D5500 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm VR II Lens. Spam, bot-generated, incentivized, duplicated, and off-topic feedback have been filtered out, ensuring that only authentic, high-quality reviews inform these results. Both strengths and weaknesses have been carefully considered to provide a comprehensive picture of the product's performance, usability, and value.

Image Quality
91%
Many users praise the sharpness and clarity of the images captured with this DSLR. The 24.2MP sensor delivers vibrant colors and impressive detail, especially in well-lit environments. It's particularly favored for its strong performance in capturing landscapes and portraits with a natural depth of field.
A few users mention that the image quality can suffer in low-light situations, with some noise appearing at higher ISOs. While the camera handles daylight well, those shooting in darker conditions may find the results less than stellar compared to more expensive models.
Ease of Use
88%
The D5500 is lauded for its user-friendly design, making it ideal for beginners and semi-professionals. The intuitive interface and responsive touchscreen allow easy navigation and quick adjustments. Many appreciate how fast they can get started without a steep learning curve, even for first-time DSLR users.
However, some users with prior DSLR experience feel that certain settings can be a bit too basic or limited. The interface, while easy to navigate for beginners, may feel somewhat restrictive for those looking for more advanced manual controls.
Battery Life
85%
The long-lasting battery is a standout feature for users who take this camera on extended trips or use it for long photo sessions. At up to 820 shots per charge, this DSLR provides sufficient power for a day's worth of shooting, which is a notable advantage over many competing models in the same price range.
That said, some users find that battery life can be shorter when using Wi-Fi frequently or shooting in video mode. While it's generally decent for regular use, heavy users may find themselves reaching for a spare battery on longer shoots or travel days.
Build Quality
80%
20%
This Nikon DSLR is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for travelers or those who shoot on the go. The body feels sturdy enough for everyday use, and the compact design makes it more portable than some bulkier DSLR options.
However, the build quality isn't as premium as some might expect from Nikon. A few users report that the plastic construction feels a bit flimsy compared to more expensive models, which may be a concern for those looking for a more robust, weather-sealed body.
Autofocus Performance
89%
The 39-point autofocus system provides fast and accurate focus, making it suitable for both still photography and action shots. Many users are impressed with its ability to quickly lock onto subjects, even in challenging conditions like moving targets or low-light settings.
While the autofocus is generally responsive, some users have mentioned that it can struggle with more complex scenes or when shooting at a distance. In extremely fast-moving situations, the autofocus may occasionally miss focus or take a moment longer to lock in.
Video Quality
87%
The 1080p video recording at 60fps offers smooth and high-quality footage, which is a great feature for content creators and casual videographers alike. The ability to shoot in full HD at a high frame rate ensures crisp and fluid video, even during action scenes or fast movements.
Despite the solid video capabilities, some users wish the camera had 4K recording for future-proofing. Also, the lack of built-in microphone input is noted as a downside by users who need professional audio options for high-quality video production.
Portability
90%
This Nikon DSLR stands out for its compact and lightweight design, which makes it easy to carry around on long shoots or while traveling. Users appreciate the camera's ability to deliver solid performance without the heft typically associated with larger DSLR models.
A few users with larger hands report that the camera’s compact size makes it less comfortable to hold for extended periods. The small grip can be a bit of a challenge for those who prefer a more substantial, ergonomic hold.
Touchscreen Usability
84%
The vari-angle touchscreen is a standout for users who appreciate the flexibility of shooting from different angles. It makes framing shots easier and more convenient, especially when capturing video or shooting in tight spaces. Many find it very responsive to touch and intuitive to use.
While the touchscreen is generally well-received, some users note that it can be a bit sensitive, especially when shooting in bright sunlight. There are also occasional complaints about the screen's visibility in direct light, which can make it harder to see the shot clearly.
Low-Light Performance
92%
Users rave about the camera's low-light capabilities, with many noting that it produces sharp and clear images even in dim conditions. The wide ISO range (100–25,600) ensures that users can maintain high-quality results in low-light environments without sacrificing too much detail or clarity.
Some users feel that while the D5500 performs well in low-light situations, it still struggles with noise in very dark environments. High ISO settings may produce some grain, which can be noticeable in images with lots of shadows or low contrast.
Connectivity (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth)
78%
22%
The built-in Wi-Fi is convenient for easily sharing photos and videos directly from the camera to a smartphone or other device. This feature is especially useful for quick uploads to social media or cloud storage, allowing users to seamlessly share their content on the go.
Some users report connectivity issues with the Wi-Fi, especially when pairing the camera with certain devices. The Bluetooth and Wi-Fi features can be a bit finicky at times, requiring multiple attempts to establish a stable connection, which can be frustrating when trying to share content quickly.
Value for Money
86%
Overall, this Nikon DSLR offers excellent value for money. With its solid performance, versatile features, and reasonable price point, many users feel they are getting a great camera without breaking the bank. It's particularly popular for beginner and semi-professional photographers looking for quality without the high cost of more advanced models.
However, some users feel that a few areas could be improved, such as the build quality and lack of certain advanced features. While it's a great entry-level DSLR, more experienced photographers might find it lacking in some areas when compared to higher-end models.
Size/Weight
91%
This camera’s compact design is a huge plus for users who need a portable option without sacrificing performance. The lightweight body makes it easy to carry during long shoots or while traveling, and it doesn't feel bulky like other DSLR models.
A few users with larger hands have pointed out that the smaller size can make the camera feel a bit cramped during extended use. The lightweight design may also make it feel less substantial to those who prefer a heavier, more solidly built camera.

Suitable for:

The Nikon D5500 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm VR II Lens is ideal for photography enthusiasts, beginners, and semi-professional users who seek a versatile and user-friendly camera. Its compact design, coupled with the 24.2MP sensor, makes it great for travelers who value portability without sacrificing image quality. The camera's intuitive touchscreen and built-in Wi-Fi functionality also make it a solid choice for content creators and vloggers who need reliable video recording and easy sharing of their work. With a long-lasting battery, it's perfect for those who need a camera that can handle extended shooting sessions while on the go.

Not suitable for:

This DSLR may not be the best option for advanced photographers or users seeking professional-level features. While its 39-point autofocus and 5 fps continuous shooting are great for everyday use, more experienced users might find these features limiting for fast action photography or complex shooting scenarios. Additionally, the plastic body construction, while lightweight, lacks the ruggedness or weatherproofing that some photographers need for outdoor or extreme conditions. Lastly, those who require 4K video recording or superior low-light performance may find this model falling short compared to higher-end alternatives.

Specifications

  • Sensor: 24.2MP CMOS sensor provides high-resolution imaging with excellent detail and clarity.
  • Lens: Comes with an 18-55mm VR II lens, offering versatile focal lengths and vibration reduction for sharper handheld shots.
  • Autofocus: Features a 39-point autofocus system for fast and precise focusing, including 9 cross-type sensors for improved accuracy.
  • Continuous Shooting: Supports 5 frames per second continuous shooting, ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
  • Display: 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen display offers flexible viewing angles and intuitive touch controls.
  • Video Recording: Records 1080p HD video at 60 frames per second, providing smooth and high-quality video output.
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi allows for easy sharing and remote control of the camera via compatible devices.
  • ISO Range: ISO range of 100–25,600 enables low-light shooting and flexible exposure control in various conditions.
  • Battery Life: Capable of capturing up to 820 shots on a single charge, providing long-lasting power for extended shooting sessions.
  • Weight: Lightweight design weighing only 0.93 lbs, making it easy to carry for travel and on-the-go photography.
  • Size: Measures 3.82 inches in height, offering a compact and portable body without sacrificing performance.
  • File Formats: Supports both RAW and JPEG file formats, providing flexibility for post-processing and editing.
  • Storage: Compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards for flexible storage options.
  • Mount: Uses the Nikon F-mount, compatible with a wide range of Nikon lenses for various photographic needs.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Nikon’s SnapBridge app for wireless file transfers and remote shooting capabilities.
  • Shutter Speed: Offers shutter speeds from 1/4000 to 30 seconds for precise control over exposure in different lighting conditions.
  • Image Stabilization: The included lens features vibration reduction (VR), helping to reduce camera shake during handheld shooting.
  • Viewfinder: Provides an optical viewfinder with 95% frame coverage for clear and precise composition.
  • Audio: Supports external microphone input via a 3.5mm port for improved audio quality in video recording.

FAQ

The Nikon D5500 DSLR Camera is an excellent option for beginners due to its user-friendly interface, intuitive controls, and helpful features like the vari-angle touchscreen. The camera's automatic modes and scene selections make it easy for novices to start shooting right away, while still offering advanced options as your skills improve.

With the built-in Wi-Fi on this DSLR camera, transferring photos and videos is simple. You can use Nikon's SnapBridge app to wirelessly send files to your smartphone or tablet. Alternatively, you can connect the camera to your computer via USB for faster file transfers.

The Nikon D5500 offers an impressive battery life, capable of shooting up to 820 photos on a single charge. This makes it a reliable option for long shoots or travel, reducing the need to constantly recharge or carry extra batteries.

Yes, the Nikon D5500 performs well in low-light conditions. Thanks to its 24.2MP CMOS sensor and a wide ISO range (100-25,600), it captures clear, detailed images even in dim lighting. It's a solid choice for indoor, evening, or night-time photography.

Absolutely. The Nikon D5500 supports 1080p HD video recording at 60fps, making it great for both casual and more serious videography. Its vari-angle touchscreen also allows for creative filming angles, which is especially useful for content creators and vloggers.

The Nikon D5500 comes with the 18-55mm VR II lens, which is a versatile zoom lens perfect for everyday photography. The lens offers vibration reduction (VR) to minimize blurriness, making it ideal for handheld shots, especially in lower light.

Yes, the Nikon D5500 uses Nikon’s F-mount, which is compatible with a wide variety of lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto. This allows you to expand your lens collection as your photography needs evolve.

The Nikon D5500 features a 39-point autofocus system, which provides fast and accurate focusing, even in dynamic situations. This is particularly helpful when capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in challenging lighting conditions.

Yes, the Nikon D5500 is an excellent choice for travel photography due to its compact size and light weight (just 0.93 lbs). Its versatile lens, ease of use, and long battery life make it a great travel companion for capturing everything from landscapes to portraits.

While the Nikon D5500 offers great features for most users, it lacks 4K video recording, which may be a downside for some videographers. Additionally, its body is somewhat small, which may be uncomfortable for users with larger hands during extended use.