Hands On: Nikon D200

The camera will ship with Nikon's PictureProject software and a 30-day trial version of Capture 4.4 RAW conversion software ($99 direct), which also lets you control the camera remotely via the Hi-Speed USB 2.0 connector (included) or from an optional Wi-Fi adapter.

According to Nikon, the D200 also features improved image-processing circuits and a superfast 15-millisecond startup time. In burst mode, the D200 can capture up to 37 high-quality JPEGs or 22 RAW-NEF images at up to 5 fps. ThatÕs faster than the 4 fps of the EOS 20D, but the same as the more expensive D2x.

According to the (CIPA-compliant) Nikon tests, the D200's battery affords 1,800 shots per charge. The EN-EL3e Li-ion is a "smart" battery, giving the D200 constant information on the level of charge remaining. But it's also Nikon's first noninterchangeable battery--it cant be used on other Nikon DSLRs, nor can the D200 operate using a third-party battery. The company claims this feature prevents the use of batteries that lack safety circuits and could cause overheating.

Bottom line? At nearly one-third the price, the D200 will attract pro shooters who don't need all the bells and whistles found on the D2x, and D2x owners will treasure it as a lighterweight backup body. If the D200's image quality and advanced features live up to expectations in our tests, we think the extra $400 this DSLR will cost over the Canon EOS 20D is well worth it. The $3,200 EOS 5D maintains a full-frame advantage over the D200, but wide-angle shooters can choose from several ultrawide-angle DX series lenses available from Nikon at a considerable savings. The game goes on!