The Nikon D200 is a DX format 10.2 megapixel DSLR and is the predecessor to the Nikon D300. Both are slated as Nikon’s “advanced amateur” models and have a number of pro-level features while still keeping the price in the reach of serious amateur or semi-pro photographers. The D200 incorporates a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, an 11-point AF system and 5 frames per second shooting capability, among others. With features such as these, it is often found in professionals’ camera bags as a backup to the likes of the Nikon D2Xs.

Reviews

DPReview.com

It’s one of those cameras which you look forward to picking up, I really got on with its design and ergonomics, it’s small enough not to break your back yet sturdy enough to feel absolutely purposeful, solid and reliable. It fills the photographer with an air of confidence that each time they need it the camera is going to perform.

Thom Hogan

Was the wait for the D200 worth it? Absolutely yes. D100 owners especially should be very happy with their upgrade. Better-than-35mm resolution? Check. Better color? Check. Better metering, AF, and white balance? Check. Improved handling? Check. More pro features? Check. Anything broken in the process? No.

Ken Rockwell

Having used both pro and amateur cameras for many decades, the professional élan with which the D200 dispatches its duties is something I appreciate compared to the D70s. It just feels better. These finesse issues never come across on paper, but are obvious when you pick up the camera and start working.

Let’s Go Digital

For the semi-pro or pro photographer the D200 D-SLR could be the perfect solution and they can have it functioning as a second camera, an all-round backup. The built-in features and technique, inherited from the professional D2x, are just great. The technique is high-level and for its price you will get just about everything you could wish for.

Steve’s Digicams

With a host of features typically reserved for professional cameras, 10.2-megapixels of resolution and excellent image quality, Nikon has not only surpassed Canon in the enthusiast market, they have blurred the distinction with their own professional D2X.

Digital Camera Resource Page

As you might expect, camera performance is first rate. The D200 starts up instantly, focuses quickly, and there’s no shutter lag or delay between shots. The continuous shooting mode was amazing, especially with a high speed memory card.

Cnet

Aggressively priced and stuffed with pro-quality features, the rugged Nikon D200 digital SLR offers the best of the D2X at about one-third the price.

Digital Camera Info

The Nikon D200 delivers excellent 10 megapixel images, and it’s easy for the experienced photographer to operate. It’s an excellent step-up camera for photographers buying a second Nikon DSLR, or for experienced film users who are finally jumping to digital (do such people still exist?).

Imaging Resource

A great part of the appeal of the D200 is its combination of 10.2 megapixel resolution and 5 frame/second continuous shooting speed. It also has a very deep buffer memory, and is no slouch when it comes to offloading images to a host computer either. All in all, an impressive performer by almost any measure.

Where to Buy

If you’re buying online, I recommend sticking with Amazon, B&H Photo or Adorama. These three vendors are reliable, trustworthy and generally have the best (legitimate) prices.