14 Megapixel Digital SLR Cameras
While the 14 megapixel digital SLR cameras come with a few feature advantages over their competition, the real reason for owning a camera like this is if you like to make giant prints.
14 megapixel sensors aren't higher quality than their 10 or 12 megapixel counterparts: they just capture images that are LARGER.
The larger the image, the better it prints at large sizes - in excess of 18x24 inches - with no loss of image quality.
However, if you don't typically print a lot of your digital photos and your primary goal is to share your photos via web sites and online, then the large files created by a 14 megapixel digital SLR are actually more of a burden than benefit.
Current 14MP Cameras
CAMERA | RELEASED | DESCRIPTION | PRICE (USD) |
---|---|---|---|
Sony SLT-A33
|
Sept.2010 | The SLT-A33 is not a "true" digital SLR because it uses an electronic viewfinder instead of an optical one. |
$750 USD
|
Sony DSLR-A560
|
March 2011 | The A560 is the most feature-rich camera of this group with a 15-point autofocus, 7 photo-per-second speed, flexible 3 inch live view LCD, Full HD 1080i video recording, sweep panorama mode, in-camera High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode and more. |
$750 USD
|
Nikon D3100
|
Sept. 2010 | The D3100 includes some big features that were missing from the D3000: namely, a live view LCD screen and the ability to capture Full High Definition 1080p movies. Like its predecessor, the D3100 includes Nikon's Guide Mode, which is designed to introduce beginning photographers to DSLR controls and functionality. |
$700 USD
|
Discontinued 14MP Digital SLRs
The cameras listed below are no longer available new, but you might be able to find them used.
As people upgrade to the latest and greatest models, many old cameras can be found on eBay for reduced prices.
This is a good option if you're not 100% sure a digital SLR is the right camera for you and want to test the waters before paying full price.
CAMERA | RELEASED | DESCRIPTION |
---|---|---|
Sony DSLR-A290
|
July 2010 | If you're looking for a basic Sony digital SLR, then the A290 is your best bet. It has a fixed LCD screen and NO video capture mode which keeps the price down and makes this camera less intimidating to those just making the switch from a point-and-shoot compact. |
Sony DSLR-A390
|
July 2010 | For a little more than the basic A290, you get live view (with Sony's fast autofocus system) and a 2.7 inch LCD that tilts out from the camera for high and low-angle photos. The A390 is for still shots, since it does not include a movie mode. |
Pentax K-7
|
July 2009 | The K-7 includes a high-definition 720p video capture mode in addition to its live view LCD, dust control and built-in image stabilization. Like other Pentax digital SLRs, the K-7 is weather and cold resistant and features a fast continuous rate (5.2 photos per second) and an 11-point autofocus system. |