Nikon 1 V2 gets more megapixels, an upgraded sensor and a radical new design
posted Tuesday, October 23, 2012 at 11:02 PM EST
Departing radically from the Nikon 1 V1's original design, the new Nikon V2 goes all out to leave the rather bland looks of the V1 behind while maintaining the family resemblance, with broad curves and a bulky industrial look. The end result is rather odd at first glance, with a big grip and a rectangular EVF and built-in flash hump on top. The Nikon 1 V2 also integrates more enthusiast-friendly features, like a more inclusive Mode dial and a Command dial as well, for quicker adjustments.
Where the rubber meets the road, though, is its imaging capabilities, which include a new 14.2-megapixel CMOS sensor that captures still images at 15 frames per second with full autofocus tracking, thanks to the sensor's built-in phase-detect autofocus system. The Nikon V2 also captures Full HD movies at 60i or 30p. The Nikon 1 system's CX sensor is smaller than even Micro Four Thirds cameras, allowing for smaller lens designs, though the bodies are about the same size as competing mirrorless cameras.
Availability starts in late November 2012, shipping with a 10-30mm kit lens for about US$900. A two-lens kit includes the 10-30mm and 30-110mm lenses for $1150, and body-only the Nikon V2 will be US$800.
Click here to get more details about the camera in our Nikon V2 preview.