Nikon D7500 Review: A Solid DSLR for Enthusiasts

The Nikon D7500 is targeted at photography enthusiasts who want something a bit more serious than a beginner DSLR without breaking the bank on a professional model. It comes with a 20.9MP sensor, pretty similar to the one on the D500, and packs a fair amount of features like 4K video and an impressive ISO range. It's not exactly lightweight, but it feels robust enough to handle some adventure.

For about two weeks, I’ve been getting familiar with this camera to see how it fares for someone who loves photography but isn’t quite ready to go all-in with a pro setup. Let’s dive into what I found.

On paper, it offers a solid mix of features that should appeal to many. However, the proof is in the pudding, so I was keen to see how it performs in real-life scenarios. Whether it’s worth the price tag is something I was particularly interested in finding out.

When it comes to value, the Nikon D7500 has a lot to offer, but it's not the cheapest option out there. Priced as a mid-range DSLR, it packs a lot of features that you’d expect in a more expensive model. The 4K video, high ISO capabilities, and solid autofocus system make it a compelling choice for those looking to up their photography game.

Compared to some competitors, like the Canon EOS 80D, the D7500 holds its ground well, especially in terms of video capabilities and continuous shooting speed. However, if you're primarily shooting stills, there are cheaper options that might serve your needs just as well.

What I appreciate about the D7500 is that it feels like a camera that can grow with you. It’s versatile enough for a range of use cases, from portraits to landscapes, to video. While it's not the cheapest, the features and performance justify the price if you’re committed to improving your photography skills.

The design of the Nikon D7500 is pretty standard for a mid-range DSLR. It’s neither compact nor excessively bulky. Weighing in at 1.66 pounds, it’s manageable but not something I’d want to lug around all day without a proper camera bag. The body feels sturdy, which is good because I’m not exactly careful when I’m out shooting.

The tilting LCD screen is a nice touch, making it easier to shoot from different angles. The touch functionality is responsive, though I wouldn’t call it revolutionary. Still, it’s a significant step up if you’re used to older models that don’t have any touch controls at all.

A few times, I did find the button layout a bit overwhelming, especially when trying to make quick adjustments. It's not a deal-breaker, but there is a learning curve. The viewfinder is optical, offering 0.94x magnification, which is decent enough for most conditions. Overall, the design gets the job done without being flashy.

The battery life on the Nikon D7500 is decent, but it’s not going to break any records. It uses a lithium-ion battery and I found it lasted through about a full day of on-and-off shooting. If you're planning on a full day out, carrying a spare battery would be wise. During my tests, a single charge typically yielded about 950 shots, which is in line with Nikon’s claims.

The battery charges fairly quickly, though it would have been nice if Nikon included a USB charging option for more convenience on the go. The camera isn’t overly power-hungry, but if you’re using features like 4K video, expect the battery to drain significantly faster. On the plus side, the battery indicator is accurate, so there are no sudden surprises.

In short, the battery life is decent but not outstanding. It’s a solid performer for most casual users, but pros might find it limiting. It’s a good idea to have a backup plan if you’re shooting extensively, particularly in video mode.

The performance of the Nikon D7500 is pretty solid for its class. It uses a 51-point AF system with 15 cross-type sensors, which is more than adequate for most photography needs. I tested it in various conditions, from daylight to low light, and it was fairly quick in locking onto subjects. However, in very dim conditions, it did struggle a bit, which isn’t uncommon.

The continuous shooting capability is also worth mentioning. At 8 fps, it’s suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects, though it’s not exactly pro-level speed. For someone like me who enjoys action shots but isn’t a professional sports photographer, it’s more than satisfactory. One thing I did notice is the buffer fills up fairly quickly if you're shooting in RAW, so be prepared for a slight pause while it writes to the card.

As for image quality, it’s excellent up to about ISO 3200, with noise becoming more noticeable beyond that. If you're shooting in good lighting or using a tripod, you’re likely to be pleased with the results. Overall, the performance is pretty good, though not without some minor quirks.