With major camera companies dedicating themselves more fully to mirrorless technology, it might surprise you to learn that Nikon isn’t giving up on their DSLRs just yet.
Despite the recent launch of the Z6 II and the Z7 II, and despite the handful of Z-mount cameras and lenses in the works, Nikon still plans to debut two DSLRs sometime in 2021, according to an “internal presentation” reported on by Nikon Rumors.
While the internal presentation discussed many items, some of which merely confirmed that which we already knew, the highlights include various interesting tidbits about Nikon mirrorless cameras versus DSLRs; up until now, Nikon DSLRs have actually performed better than their mirrorless counterparts in terms of sales, though Nikon predicts “within 60 days that mirrorless will outsell [the] F-mount.”
But presumably as a consequence of the still-significant DSLR sales, Nikon aims to launch two DSLRs next year, along with “several new F-mount lenses.”
What DSLRs will these be?
A safe bet is that at least one will be a mid-level or entry-level Nikon model, especially because this is one area where Nikon lacks mirrorless counterparts. We might see a Nikon D3600, for instance, which should be a relatively low-priced option aimed at beginners (though bear in mind that it was rumored over a year ago that Nikon was canceling its Nikon D3500 lineup). Alternatively, we might get a more midrange option: a Nikon D7600, which is long overdue and should offer higher-end capabilities, such as fast autofocusing and strong low-light performance.
In fact, these models would correspond pretty closely to two of Canon’s few DSLR releases in the past year or so: the entry-level Canon EOS 850D (also known as the Rebel T8i) and the mid-level Canon 90D.
The second new DSLR is likely a Nikon D850 replacement; this would be a high-resolution professional model, designed for landscape and commercial shooters in particular (but with the potential to work as a wildlife or event camera, as well!).
As for the new lenses, it’s anybody’s guess, but I suspect they’ll cater more toward beginners (assuming the new cameras are entry-level models) and professional sports photography, which is one area where DSLRs are still the overwhelming choice.
Ultimately, I’m not sure Nikon’s DSLR lineup can withstand the next five or so years; it’s very possible these 2021 cameras will be some of the last DSLRs that Nikon releases. Regardless, for DSLR shooters, it’ll be nice to look forward to a couple more cameras and lenses over the coming year!
Now over to you:
What do you think these DSLRs and lenses will be? And do you think they’ll be some of Nikon’s last DSLR products? Share your thoughts in the comments!
