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Nikon's delivers dapper duo of DL compacts (pictures)

With only a few exceptions aside from the lens, the Nikon DL18-50 and DL24-85 are identical.

Lori Grunin
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
Lori Grunin
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How they differ

This is the key view from which to differentiate the two cameras. The DL18-50 (bottom) is the higher-end model: you can tell because it incorporates Nikon's Nano Crystal Coat on the lens and lacks a flash, while the DL24-85 (top) has a Super Macro mode that lets you capture actual-size photos. While you'd think that would be a nice feature for the higher-end model, 1:1 capture in general requires a narrower angle-of-view lens than the DL18-50 has.

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Both cameras: Flip for selfies

The display flips up for easier selfies and groupies, but it looks like you don't see the whole display in this position.

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Both cameras: Lens hood

Nikon will offer an optional lens hood, generally a necessity with such wide-angle lenses.

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Both cameras: Tilt

The LCD tilts for low-down shots.

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Both cameras: Above the head

The display also tilts down for shooting above your head.

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Both cameras: Optional EVF

The optional hot-shoe electronic viewfinder can tilt, which is a very nice way to shoot.

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Both cameras: Features

They offer 4K video as well as Bluetooth for a persistent low-energy connection to supporting devices.

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Both cameras: Back controls

The back has a typical control layout.

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DL18-50: View from the top

Both cameras have a manual-aperture ring and a manual-focus ring.

dl1850ttop.jpg
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DL18-50: Lens

The lens is longer at its widest angle than at its narrowest, which I tend to find a little disorienting.

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DL24-85: Flash

The DL24-85 is considered a little more consumery, and includes a built-in flash.

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DL24-85: Lens

The longer-zoom DL24-85 is about 0.2 inch deeper than the DL18-50.

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DL24-85: Super Macro

The Super Macro mode, which allows you to shoot at 1:1 (actual size), is only available on this model.

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DL24-85: Zoom

Unlike the DL18-50, the DL24-85's lens extends as you zoom in.

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