Nikon 1 V1 and J1

Review based on production Nikon 1 J1 and V1 samples running firmware version 1.10

Note: This review covers the specification, design and performance of both the Nikon 1 J1 and V1 cameras. Because of the all but identical image quality of the two models, samples in this review are presented from both cameras interchangeably. Most of our comments in this review apply to both cameras but where our commentary is specific to either model, this is indicated clearly in the text.

Nikon’s entry into the mirrorless interchangeable lens market late last year was widely anticipated, but the products that were finally announced took a lot of people by surprise. Nikon has created an entirely new system based around a relatively small sensor, that is about 30% of the size of those used in the company’s DX-format SLRs. The system is spearheaded by two cameras – the Nikon 1 J1 and 1 V1. The J1 is the entry-level model, and the V1 is aimed at a slightly more advanced user, but both cameras are intended essentially for beginners upgrading from compact cameras or cameraphones, and who find the size and complexity of a DSLR intimidating.

The V1 and J1′s standout features are their autofocus and continuous shooting abilities. Both cameras feature a ‘hybrid’ AF system that combines both Phase and Contrast Detection methods, which in principle grants them to keep track of fast-moving subjects in much the same way as SLRs can (and compacts and other mirrorless cameras conspicuously can’t). Both also feature a remarkable maximum shooting speed of 60 frames per second at full resolution, and to support this they use dual image processors that offer Nikon’s latest ‘EXPEED 3′ processing.

In addition to the J1 and its slightly higher specified huge brother the V1, the Nikon 1 system debuts with four ’1 Nikkor’ interchangeable lenses (including a ‘pancake’ prime and a video-optimized power superzoom), and a range of accessory port add-ons for the V1. Perhaps nothing signals Nikon’s long-term commitment to the 1 System, however, more than its decision to build both cameras around a completely new lens mount and a unique 10MP CMOS sensor.

Unlike the rest of the market, which is populated by cameras baked to the same basic ‘small body, massive sensor’ recipe, the 1 System’s 1-inch sensor that is small in two ways – both physically and in terms of its resolution. At 13.2 x 8.8mm, the 10MP sensor at the heart of these new cameras is considerably smaller in comparison with every other mirrorless competitor except the Pentax Q, and results in a 2.7x effective focal length multiplier. The cameras, on the other hand, aren’t that small at all. The dimensions of the V1 place it alongside the Panasonic DMC-G3 and Sony NEX-7 – two of the larger-bodied mirrorless cameras.

The differences between the J1 and V1 are important – the V1 has a built-in 1.4M-dot LCD viewfinder, while the J1 does not. However, despite being the cheaper, simpler model, the J1 has a built-in flash which the V1 lacks. The V1 makes up for this omission with a multi-accessory port that can be used to mount a dedicated external Speedlight SB-N5 flashgun or GPS unit.

The V1 has a higher resolution rear LCD screen and a mechanical shutter (in addition to the electronic shutter found in the J1), which makes it a better choice for high framerate captures of moving subjects. The mechanical shutter also grants it to use flash at shutter speeds of 1/250th of a second, rather than the 1/60th that the electronic shutter limits the cameras to. Ergonomically though, with the exception of the V1′s built-in EVF, both cameras handle in much the same way. Both lack a traditional exposure mode dial, and neither camera offers much in the way of customization. Both are – in essence – designed for multipurpose point and shoot operation.

Nikon 1 J1 and V1 specification highlights10MP 1″ CMOS sensor with 2.7x effective focal length multiplier Hybrid AF system with both phase and contrast detection 60fps at full resolution (with electronic shutter only) 1080/60i video ISO 100-3200 (‘Hi 1′ option at approx. ISO 6400)Nikon 1 J1 and V1 key differencesV1 has built-in 1.4M dot LCD electronic viewfinder V1 has VGA (920k dot) rear LCD, J1 has 460k dot panel V1 has mechanical and electronic shutter option, J1 has electronic only J1 has built-in flash, V1 requires optional accessory flash V1′s accessory port grants attachment of external Speedlight or GPS unit (J1 has no port) V1 has a larger, higher capacity battery (the same as found on the D7000)

*Note that this video was prepared as part of our original preview content on the Nikon 1 System.

source : www.dpreview.com

Nikon 1 V1 and J1

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