The Nikon D50 is a solid contender among entry level DSLRs, providing users with a 6 megapixel APS-format sensor, 2.5 frames-per-second burst mode, vibrant color rendition, and excellent noise performance. Available at an MSRP of $899.95 and selling for around $700 or even below online, the D50 falls into an increasingly crowded segment of the DSLR realm. Supplying a 2-inch, 130,000 pixel LCD and strong autofocus system, the rugged consumer-level DSLR is even smaller than the D70 and contains a very deep feature set and host of manual controls that will help first time digital SLR owners hone their skills and grow into the medium.
The Nikon D50 takes 0.26 seconds to start up and take its first shot. This is faster than most compact digital cameras, but slower than most digital SLRs.
The burst mode has its pros and cons. Good news first: the D50 can take a picture every 0.367 seconds for the first 14 shots. It can also take 81 shots until it has to stop and write to the memory card. Now for the bad news: between the 15th shot and the 81st shot, the Nikon D50 slowed considerably to a photo every 0.75 seconds.
Taking a mere 0.02 seconds, the Nikon D50 can compete with other DSLRs in this category. With this speed, shutter lag should not be a problem for most casual users.