Nikon's D3400 DSLR is made for aspiring photographers
The entry-level camera costs $650 with a kit lens.
Not everyone can handle cameras like Nikon's flagship D5, which are designed with professional photographers in mind. But, for those who want a less advanced DSLR, the Japanese manufacturer has others such as its new D3400. This entry-level shooter features a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor (DX-format) alongside the Expeed 4 processor, which Nikon claims brings improved auto white balance performance and better image quality in low-light scenarios. The D3400 also boasts an ISO range of 100-25,600, 11-point autofocus system, 5-fps continuous shooting and 1080p video at up to 60 fps. These are the sort of specs you'd expect from beginner DSLRs, but the lack of 4K recording will be a downside for some people.
Of course, similar to the higher-end D500, Nikon's D3400 comes with SnapBridge connectivity. You can use this to transfer pictures remotely to a smartphone or tablet; there's no WiFi here though, meaning the data is shared over low-energy Bluetooth. Another highlight is that the D3400 is getting a fresh line of dedicated lenses, called the AF-P DX Nikkor. According to Nikon, these have a very quiet motor, which should come in handy for users who shoot video on a regular basis.
The D3400 will hit stores in "early" September for $650, in a kit that includes an AF-P DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 G VR lens. Or, you'll also have the option to buy it with that same glass plus an AF-P DX Nikkor 70-300mm f4.5/6.3 G ED for $1,000. Alternatively, Nikon's also selling the 70-300mm lens with vibration reduction for $400 on its own.
