Challenging the perception that latest is always best, the 16.2 megapixel D7000 remains a fantastic step up camera for those who have outgrown entry level digital SLRs, indeed for anyone wanting to upgrade from older mid-range models.

Feature-packed; Robustly built; Long battery life

Pricey; Bulky; LCD not angle adjustable

Rather than a genuine replacement for the D90-which is in theory going to see out its days at the end of the year-or a way out for the D300s, the D7000 is carving out its own niche

Great build quality; 100% viewfinder; Excellent control of electronic noise up to 3200 ISO; Burst mode reaches 6 fps and autofocus is fast; Stabilised kit lens a real all-rounder; Wireless control over external flash

Video mode not quite up there and autofocus could still be faster; Normal quality JPEGs lack a bit of oomph; Fixed LCD screen; No headphone output to listen back to sound; Capture NX2 software sold separately but the best way to enjoy RAW photos

As it has 16.2 million pixels on its CMOS sensor the Nikon D7000 has a higher resolution than all other Nikon APS-C (DX) format DSLRs. In fact, it is only trumped in this respect by the top-end Nikon D3X , which has 24.5 million pixels on its full-frame (FX) sensor.

The Nikon D7000 is a remarkable camera for the money. Features such as the large pentaprism viewfinder, dual command dials and a top-mounted passive LCD screen distinguish it from entry-level consumer models, but its magnesium alloy body and dual SDXC card slots – used for overflow, backup or...

A solid step up from the D90 , D3100 or other entry level DSLR's, the Nikon D7000 is only let down by mediocre video and sound recording,

Great daylight performance; accessible features; fantastic build quality

Average video options and performance; heavy for its size

The D7000 is a fantastic step up camera for those who have outgrown entry level digital SLRs or for those who want to upgrade from older mid-range models, with the advantage this time around of a bang up-to-date feature set for the Nikon range; the obvious advantages of Full HD video and optional...

The D7000 DSLR offers superb performance at high ISO, comes with weather seals and records full HD videos

- Dual SD card slot; - superb performance at high ISO; - weather seals; - fast autofocus with the new 39-point AF sensor

- HD video recording at 24fps; - No continuous shooting with flash on

The first thing you'll notice if you're stepping up from a Nikon D3100 or D5100 is the build quality of the Nikon D7000 and the magnesium alloy construction contributes to a high-end, resilient feel in the hand.

The Nikon D90 was – and still is – one of our favourite SLRs, with sublime ergonomics and equally alluring photo quality. It was the first SLR to record video, but two years on, its 720p resolution and five-minute maximum recording time look old-fashioned.

Sept 15th. Nikon has today announced the mid range Nikon D7000 digital SLR camera, an update to the popular Nikon D90, and in many ways a model that out specs the higher end Nikon D300s.