Nikon D610 review – Build and handling
While the internal features are pretty much the same as those in the D600, the D610’s design, layout and build are also very similar. Although not feeling quite as robust as the professional-level D800, the D610 still feels like a professional piece of kit in the hand. This is thanks to the magnesium-alloy construction of the top and rear covers, with the remainder of the shell formed from toughened polycarbonate plastic. Combined with the same high level of weather-sealing as the D800, to protect the camera against dust and moisture, it results in a hardy but lightweight shell.
In the hand, the D610 is nicely proportioned, with a comfortable but not overly large handgrip. It is also logically laid out, so existing Nikon users, and those who have been tempted to jump brands, should feel comfortable shooting with it.
Along the top-plate is a fairly uncluttered mode dial, beneath which is a release-mode dial that now includes quiet continuous shooting mode. Both feature a dedicated locking button to avoid any unintentional dial turning during shooting, although I’d have liked to have seen something a little less fiddly for the release-mode lock.
The D610 is dotted with a variety of external access points for a range of shooting controls, with large and comfortable buttons to press, while the dual front and rear command dials fall comfortably to the hand and are easy to turn. While it does have its little niggles, overall the D610 is a very satisfying camera with which to shoot.
