When it comes to camera manufacturers, Nikon is among the best known. And for good reason - its range of DSLR, compact system and compact cameras contains some standout products that deliver performance and imaging clout where it matters.

Here we look at the full range to see which Nikon camera is best for you.

Nikon's DSLR range is divided between its DX (APS-C sensor size) and professional FX (Full-frame or 35mm sensor size) ranges.

Nikon's DX format camera range encompasses what Nikon calls its Consumer range of DSLRs, as well as its Professional range. The DX camera's 1.5x crop means equivalent focal lengths are 50% 'longer' than their FX equivalent (ie 50mm is a 75mm equivalent, although not all DX lenses will provide an image circle large enough to cover an FX sensor).

Although FX sensors offer the potential for better image quality and shallower depth of field (at any given aperture), they also mean larger, heavier and far more expensive kit.

Best Nikon consumer DSLR

Nikon D3100

Price: £370/AU$550/US$550 (with 18-55mm kit lens), 14.2MP, HD video: 1080p

Nikon's entry-level DSLR is best for beginners or users wanting to step up from compact cameras. The Nikon D3100's key selling point is its GUIDE mode, which provides on-screen assistance in both visual and written forms to help explain modes and options without jargon - ideal for the newcomer.

The D3100's 14.2MP DX sensor produces great quality images and can even render Full HD 1080p movie files. The rear screen can be used to show a real-time preview, or the 95% field of view optical viewfinder provides an ample way of framing shots.

Read our Nikon D3100 review

Nikon D5100

Price: £450/AU$600/US$550 (body only), 16.2MP, HD video: 1080p

The middle ground of Nikon's consumer range, the D5100 has the same 16.2MP DX sensor as found in the D7000, higher in the range. Image quality is excellent as a result and the camera's overall build quality is the main difference from its higher-specified partner.

Best for families and creative types, the D5100 has a vari-angle screen that can be positioned at almost any angle for imaginative shooting, plus there's a built-in Effects mode to shoot both still images and 1080p movies, with special effects such as Miniature, Selective Color and Silhouette.

Read our Nikon D5100 review

Nikon D90

Price: £530/AU$1,000/US$850 (body only), 12.3MP, HD video: 720p

Although the Nikon D90 is a little long in the tooth and no longer on the production line, it's a solidly-built DSLR that's available at a cut of its original asking price.

The D90 was the first DSLR to introduce HD video capture (720p) and the 12.3MP DX sensor is also able to deliver good image quality. It may not be able to match some of its newer peers in this department, but it's the overall build quality where this camera excels.

Read our Nikon D90 review

Nikon D5200

Price: £650/AU$1,000/US$800 (body only), 24.1MP, HD video: 1080p

Provided you are happy not to have an array of buttons and dials giving you very quick access to key features, the Nikon D5200 looks like a great option for enthusiast photographers looking for a small, versatile camera, as well as those wanting to step up from an entry-level camera such as the Nikon D3100.

The Nikon D5200 is a solid performer that's well built and delivers images with well-controlled noise and plenty of detail, albeit with slight banding in some images taken at ISO 3200 and above.

Read our Nikon D5200 review

Nikon D3200

Price: £650/AU$800/US$700 (with 18-55mm kit lens), 24.2MP, HD video:1080p

Nikon introduced the D3200 as a better specified companion to the D3100 in its entry-level range of DSLRs. It features a 24.2 million pixel CMOS sensor and the same EXPEED 3 processing engine as the top-end D4.

The novice-friendly Guide Mode found on the D3100 is present, but has been enhanced with guides including Reds In Sunsets. Noise is well controlled through the native sensitivity range (ISO 100-6400) and images have plenty of detail, but the screen doesn't always display image colour accurately.

The Nikon D3200 wins our Best entry-level DSLR award.

Read our Nikon D3200 review

Nikon D7000

Price: £850/AU$1,300/US$1,100 (body only), 16.2MP, HD video: 1080p

At the top of the Consumer bracket, the Nikon D7000 is knocking on the door of professional cameras, and is best for more demanding photographers not able to stretch to the more significant asking price of the D300S.

The Nikon D7000's 16.2MP DX sensor is the same as that found in the more affordable D5100, but offers a sturdy, weather-sealed build and a variety of other perks. The 100% optical viewfinder means what you see in preview is what you get; an excellent 39-point autofocus system is ideal for moving subjects; 6fps shooting is quicker than its nearby models; and a durable shutter tested to 150,000 cycles guarantees longevity even under considerable use.

Read our Nikon D7000 review