Upgrade guide · updated 5 November 2026

Should I upgrade from the Nikon D5 to the Nikon D6?

Verdict

Upgrading is worth it if those changes matter to your photography. Both use the Nikon F mount, so your lenses fit directly.

What you gain

  • faster bursts (14fps vs 12fps)
  • 4 years of newer processing and autofocus (2016 → 2020)

What you give up

  • Nothing significant on paper

What it costs

D6 new£6,799
D6 used (MPB, typical)£1,700
Your D5 trade-in (rough estimate)≈ £620
Net cost buying used≈ £1,080

Trade-in estimates assume about two-thirds of the typical MPB resale price; real offers vary with condition and shutter count.

Other upgrade paths

Frequently asked questions

Should I upgrade from the Nikon D5 to the Nikon D6?

The upgrade is worth it if those changes matter to your photography. You gain faster bursts (14fps vs 12fps), 4 years of newer processing and autofocus (2016 → 2020).

How much does it cost to upgrade from the D5 to the D6?

The D6 costs £6,799 new and about £1,700 used at MPB. Trading in a used D5 might bring roughly £620, so the net cost is around £1,080 buying used (a rough estimate: get quotes from MPB, Wex and Park Cameras).

Will my D5 lenses work on the D6?

Both use the Nikon F mount, so your lenses fit directly.