Nikon V1 Preview

Nikon has finally joined the EVIL (Electronic Viewfinder Interchangeable Lens) world with the introduction of their first mirror-less cameras. Nikon unveiled two new "Nikon 1" models, the V1 and the J1.

Nikon's V1 is aimed at photo enthusiasts, who demand high performance and image quality, however they still desire a more compact system. Sharing most of the same features found on the J1, the V1 adds a more resolute 3.0-inch LCD (921K pixels vs 460K), a high quality EVF (1.4 million dots), and a Multi-Accessory Port for optional accessories; like the new SB-N5 external flash and the GP-N100 GPS unit.

Like the J1, the heart of the V1 is a powerful 10-megapixel CX-format CMOS image sensor and a new EXPEED 3 dual core processor. All of these features are housed in a compact and lightweight, magnesium alloy body. 

The Nikon V1 looks like a promising entry in a very competitive category. Check back in the weeks to come as we update this page once we get a V1 in for testing. 

Nikon V1 Key Features:

• Compact and stylish magnesium alloy body
  
• New CX-format CMOS image sensor (13.2x8.8mm, 2.7x crop factor)
• EXPEED 3 dual core processor
  
• High-resolution EVF with 1.4 million dots
  
• 5fps burst mode shooting at full resolution
• Hi-speed continuous shooting from 10fps up to 60fps at lower resolution
  
• High-Speed 73-point Hybrid AF system (combines Phase Detection and Contrast Detect AF)
  
• Sensitivity range from ISO 100 - 3200 (up to 6400 in Hi-1 mode)
• Full 1080p (30fps) or 1080i (60fps) HD video
• High-speed video at 30, 60, 400, or 1200 fps
• 3.0-inch LCD with 921K pixels
• JPEG + RAW (NEF) file formats; NEF+JPEG available
• Scene Auto Selector for simple point-n-shoot operation
• Program Auto, Shutter speed priority, Aperture priority, and full Manual exposure control
• Five Scene modes
• Smart Photo Selector, uses in-camera "pre-cache" to help ensure you don't miss a shot
  
• Built-in flash
• Li-ion battery pack (good for up to 230 photos using CIPA standards)
• Memory slot accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards
• Multi-Accessory Port for attaching optional accessories
  

The Nikon V1 will start shipping on October 20th (2011), and you can have any color you want; as long as it's black.

The V1 will come in the following configurations:

• V1 + 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 VR lens = $899.95 USD
• V1 + 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 VR and 1 NIKKOR 10mm f/2.8 lenses = $1149.95 USD
• V1 + 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 VR and 1 NIKKOR VR 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6 VR lenses = $1149.95 USD