Nikon removes sensor cleaning and microphone input with new D3400 DSLR
Nikon announces a new entry-level SLR camera. Compared to its predecessor, the D3400 can take more photos on a single battery charge and has support for Nikon’s SnapBridge technology. However, ultrasonic sensor cleaning and the microphone input have been removed.
The Nikon D3400 has an aps-c sized 24-megapixel sensor, an Expeed 4 image processor and a maximum shooting speed of five frames per second. This means that the main specifications are the same as those of the two-year-old predecessor, the D3300. It is not certain whether Nikon uses the exact same image sensor; it may be a newer copy. With a range of 100 to 25,600 iso, the sensitivity is higher than that of the D3300, which goes up to 12,800 iso.
According to the manufacturer, the new dslr can take 1200 photos on a single battery charge. With the predecessor, that was still 700, while it uses the same battery. Nikon also says that the Guide Mode has been improved. This function should help users during shooting by displaying tips on the screen.
New compared to the old model is the arrival of SnapBridge support. This is a technique from Nikon that works with bluetooth and makes it possible to operate the camera remotely with a smartphone or tablet. Unlike many other new cameras, the D3400 does not have Wi-Fi. It is only possible to transfer files wirelessly to devices with the Nikon SnapBridge app installed. It is currently available for Android and an iOS version will follow shortly.
It is striking that Nikon has deleted some functions of the D3300. For example, the D3400 no longer has ultrasonic sensor cleaning; a technique that works by vibrating the chip at an ultrasonic frequency, in order to remove dust particles from the sensor. The D3400 also no longer has a microphone input and sound can only be recorded during filming with the built-in mono microphone.
Nikon releases the D3400 in a kit with an AF-P 18-55 mm VR lens, for a suggested retail price of 599 euros. This makes the camera considerably more expensive than the current D3300, which is currently available for around 400 euros with the same lens. There will be a black and a red version of the D3400. The device should be in stores from September 15.
Simultaneously with the camera, Nikon introduces two new telephoto zoom lenses with AF-P stepper motor. There will be a 70-300 mm f/4.5-6.3G ED with VR image stabilization for a suggested retail price of 399 euros. In addition, a variant without VR will appear, which will cost 349 euros.