6 Megapixel Digital SLR Cameras |
Page updated: July 2008 |
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In early 2006, 6 megapixel digital SLR cameras were all the rage. The race was on, and manufacturers were producing these cameras as fast as they could to stay competitive. Then a sudden shift took place. In late 2005, Nikon introduced an exceptionally fast 10 megapixel digital SLR: the D200. While priced well out of the range of most consumers, this camera was the beginning of a new megapixel craze. By the end of 2006, the transition was almost complete, with the introduction of four new 10 megapixel cameras and the gradual phasing-out of new 6 megapixel models. |
Today only a handful of these cameras remain, as virtually every new digital SLR now includes a 10 megapixel sensor.
The Upside of 6
Six megapixel digital SLR cameras had a lot going for them:
- You could make high-quality prints at 11x14 inches, which is a fairly large size for any non-professional photographer
- 6 megapixel files didn't eat up your hard drive space as fast at their 10 megapixel counterparts
Despite this, the perceived relationship between more megapixel and image quality (there isn't one) caused the increase from 6 to 10 megapixels (and then to 12 and 14, etc.).
There is currently only ONE camera that you can still buy new in the 6 megapixel category - for all of the discontinued models, you'll have to go hunting on eBay or at camera swaps.
6 Megapixel Digital SLR Camera
Nikon D40 |
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Release Date | December 2006 |
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| Key Features | 6.1 megapixels, 2.5in. LCD, SD Memory | |
| Uniqueness | Helpful LCD | |
| Great For | Learning photography | |
| Level | Beginner | |
| Avg. Kit Price | $470 | |
| Competitors | Canon 350D, Pentax K100D Super | |
| The D40 features an innovative LCD display that actually SHOWS you how changing camera settings affects your images. It's a great tool for photographers who are learning terms like aperture, shutter speed and ISO. The D40 is also the smallest, lightest and cheapest Nikon digital SLR. | ||
| Compare prices for the D40 at Amazon or Adorama | ||
Discontinued 6 Megapixel Digital SLR Cameras
Listed below are many of the now-discontinued 6 megapixel digital SLR cameras.
I continue to list them for several reasons:
- The number of cameras that are now obsolete clearly illustrates the shift from 6 to 10 megapixels
- These cameras can be found at bargain prices - you'll have to buy used, but a used SLR is still a step up from a compact point-and-shoot
| Camera | Special Feature | LCD | Autofocus | Size | Weight |
| Nikon D50 | Fast flash | 2.0 in | 5-point | 5.2 x 4 x 3 in 133 x 102 x 76 mm |
22 oz 620 g |
| Nikon D70s | Fast flash | 2.0 in | 5-point | 5.5 x 4.4 x 3.1 in 140 x 111 x 78 mm |
24 oz 679 g |
| Pentax *ist DS | Small and light | 2.0 in | 11-point | 4.9 x 3.7 x 2.6 in 125 x 93 x 66 mm |
21.3 oz 605 g |
| Pentax *ist DS2 | Small and light | 2.5 in | 11-point | 4.9 x 3.7 x 2.6 in 125 x 93 x 66 mm |
21.3 oz 605 g |
| Pentax *ist DL | Inexpensive | 2.5 in | 3-point | 4.9 x 3.7 x 2.6 in 125 x 93 x 66 mm |
19.9 oz 565 g |
| Pentax K100D | Built-in anti-shake | 2.5 in | 11-point | 5.1 x 3.7 x 2.8 in 129 x 93 x 70 mm |
23.3 oz 660 g |
| Pentax K110D | None | 2.5 in | 11-point | 5.1 x 3.7 x 2.8 in 129 x 93 x 70 mm |
20.6 oz 585 g |
| Samsung GX-1S | Small and light | 2.5 in | 11-point | 4.9 x 3.7 x 2.6 in 125 x 93 x 66 mm |
21.3 oz 605 g |
| Samsung GX-1L | Small and light | 2.5 in | 5-point | 4.9 x 3.7 x 2.6 in 125 x 93 x 66 mm |
16 oz 505 g |
If you do decide to get an older 6 megapixel digital SLR, then the two that I'd recommend you take a close look at are the Nikon D50 and the Pentax K100D.
The D50 is an exceptional camera, which is why I selected it as the best digital SLR of 2005. I have many friends who picked up the D50 when it was first available, and are still happily using them today. One option for getting your hands on a D50 is eBay.
The Pentax K100D is one of the least expensive digital SLRs that you can buy that has a built-in image stabilization system. This makes the camera a great option for low-light photographers who can't use a flash.
Related Links
 SLRs by Megapixels |
Digital SLR Home | 8 Megapixel SLRs |
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