DSLR News

Nikon has shared more details about its forthcoming new Nikon D6 pro DSLR. The Nikon D6, which will go on sale in April 2020 for $6,499.95 (body) only, will use a FX-format (aka full frame) CMSO sensor with the same 20.8MP resolution as the previous model, the Nikon D5 from four years ago.

In an unusual move, Nikon did not share pre-release details (under NDA) about the Nikon D6 with Shutterbug, perhaps because some of the features of this new top-of-the-line flagship are similar to 2016's D5. Nikon has not said whether the new D6 uses the same 20.8MP full frame sensor as the D5 or an upgraded new sensor with the same resolution.

Nikon actually already announced it was developing the D6 back in September 2019 but details about the camera then were scant, to say the least. Nikon also announced in September that it was developing a AF-S Nikkor 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR telephoto zoom lens but we've heard no further info since that announcement.

Below are some of the key features of the new Nikon D6 that we pulled from Nikon USA's official press release. We've also included the official product shots of the D6 that were sent to us by Nikon USA.

Nikon D6 Specs & Features

• 20.8-megapixel FX-Format (full frame) CMOS sensor

• 14 frames per second continuous shooting (mechanical shutter) with full AF and AE

• 10.5 fps silent shooting

• 4K UHD video capture capabilities

• Magnesium alloy camera body with extensive weather sealing

• 105-point AF system: all focus points utilize cross-type sensors and all points are selectable

• Through the new focus point layout and the use of a triple-sensor arrangement for each focus point, the D6 offers AF coverage approximately 1.6x denser than the D5

• Expanded focus detection range which increases the detection area for single point AF and dynamic area AF, designed to make it easier to achieve focus on a subject even when slightly outside the focus point

• Group AF mode now supports 17 custom autofocus arrangements from which users can choose according to the scene or subject movement.

•  Improved low-light AF performance: the center focus point works down to -4.5 EV and the others to -4 EV, making autofocus possible even in dark situations or with low-contrast subjects

• ISO range is from 100 to 102,400 (native). Expandable to up to 3.2 million ISO for shooting in pitch dark conditions

• EXPEED 6 image processor

• 3580 shots per battery charge (based on CIPA standards)

• Shoots 2-megapixel images at approximately 60 fps and 8-megapixel images at 30 fps in Live View mode

• USB-Type C connector for faster direct-to-PC file transfer rates than with the D5

D6 Workflow Features

• Recall shooting functions create combinations of settings that can be assigned to a specific button

• The D6 supports the same 1000BASE-T Ethernet standard as the D5, with an approximate 15% increase in transmission speed. The camera also supports a number of options for wireless networking, offering built-in 2.4- and 5-GHz Wi-Fi or traditional wireless transfer using the WT-6 Wireless Transmitter (optional)

• Includes 14 customizable buttons, assignable to any of 46 unique function choices and a new menu system

• Priority Image Transfer gives the ability to move an important image to the front of the queue when speed is a priority, which can be done by swiping the touch LCD during playback

• Security Lock compatibility supports connection of anti-theft cables to provide maximum security for remote applications or when the camera is unattended

• Built in GPS gives accurate time, date and location information for most locations in the world

• Dual CFexpress slots offer faster read/write times and have the ability to overflow, copy or separate file types

•  JPEG functions allow for the simultaneous recording of two JPEG images with different image size and quality settings, which is convenient for separating images that will be transmitted from those that will be edited

• Creativity options for multimedia creators including a new interval timer mode to retain the best resolution and enable in-camera time-lapse movie file recording providing professionals the ability to create exceptionally sharp 16:9 4K Ultra HD video

Pricing and Availability
The new Nikon D6 DSLR goes on sale in April 2020 for a suggested retail price of $6,499.95 for the camera body only. More info on the D6 at: www.nikonusa.com.  

We've embedded a video below from Nikon Europe showing off some of the Nikon D6's features.