Nikon's first touchscreen DX DSLR with a compact body and excellent image quality.
The Nikon D5500 was launched in 2015 as Nikon's first DSLR with a touchscreen interface. With a 24.2MP DX sensor without an optical low-pass filter, vari-angle screen, and a carbon fibre reinforced body, it offered an appealing combination of image quality and modern features for enthusiast photographers.
The 39-point AF system with 9 cross-type points is a solid performer for general photography. Burst rate is 5fps. The 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen enables intuitive operation and comfortable shooting at unusual angles. 1080p 60fps video is available. The body is lightweight at 420g thanks to the monocoque carbon fibre composite construction.
The D5500 is praised for excellent image quality from the filter-free 24MP sensor, the versatile touchscreen, and comfortable ergonomics despite its small size. It lacks Wi-Fi which was unusual for 2015 and was addressed by the D5600. Battery life is good at around 820 shots.
Good value used. Check the touchscreen responsiveness and vari-angle hinge, shutter count, and AF point accuracy. The D5600 added Wi-Fi and Bluetooth but is otherwise very similar. The D5500 offers virtually identical image quality at a lower used price.