It has been a tough year for DSLR development, especially with the meteoric rise in popularity of mirrorless cameras, and in respect to the booming 2017 that saw the introduction of the still-hard-to-get Nikon D850, the popular Nikon D7500, Canon EOS 77D, and the Rebel T7i. Nonetheless, DSLRs are still alive and kicking, and 2018 saw the release of two very different cameras—one entry level and one flagship full-frame model.
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Nikon D3500
2018 saw an update to the entry-level D3000 series of petite DSLRs—one of Nikon’s most popular lines—with the D3500. Taking cues from mirrorless’ characteristic smaller packages, this DSLR was designed to be as compact as possible while retaining the assets everyone expects from a DSLR; notably a nice pentamirror optical viewfinder and an especially ergonomic grip for comfort while holding. The D3500 differs from Nikon’s previous iterations with a redesigned control scheme: all the rear buttons are now located on the right-hand side for easier one-handed access, and the overall form factor now more closely resembles that of the D5600, with a deeper grip. Beyond these physical differences, the D3500 is still as solid as ever in terms of imaging capabilities, with a DX-format 24.2MP CMOS sensor, EXPEED 4 image processor, top sensitivity of ISO 25600, top shooting rate of 5 fps, and Full HD video recording at 60 fps. The camera also includes Bluetooth for wireless image sharing, and battery performance is more efficient, with the EN-EL14a now capturing 1,550 shots per charge.
The D3500 is available with an 18-55mm lens or in a two-lens kit, with 18-55mm and 70-300mm lenses.
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Pentax K-1 Mark II
On the other side of the DSLR fence, Pentax also used 2018 to update its flagship full-frame model with the K-1 Mark II. Key enhancements to this impressive camera include an upgraded PRIME IV image processor with an Accelerator Unit, which helps the 36.4MP CMOS sensor achieve lower noise, greater clarity, and improved color accuracy, along with an expanded sensitivity range that now reaches ISO 819200. These processing improvements work in concert with the five-axis Shake Reduction system that helps to minimize the appearance of camera shake, as well as enable Pixel Shift Resolution II and Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution for creating higher-resolution composite shots.
Beyond these imaging upgrades, the K-1 Mark II retains its notably robust physical design, which uses stainless steel and magnesium alloy to render an especially durable and rigid chassis. Extensive weather sealing about the body also makes it suitable for use in harsh weather conditions. Additionally, a calling card of Pentax DSLRs for some time, the K-1 Mark II has a large pentaprism optical finder with 100% frame coverage, along with a 3.2" 1.04m-dot Cross-Tilt LCD, built-in Wi-Fi, and built-in GPS.
What are your thoughts on 2018’s pair of DSLR releases? Are DSLRs still relevant in today’s photographic market? Are there still great things to come to those who prize a more ergonomic body design and optical viewfinder? Kick-start the conversation in the Comments section.
