THE BOTTOM LINE

On paper, both the Nikon D3s and Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 VRII lens may seem like nothing more than minor upgrades to the previous models. However, in our testing we found the better high ISO performance of the D3s all the way to ISO 12,800 and improved design and sharpness of the 70-200mm VRII at slower shutter speeds offered important, real world benefits. We also liked the beautiful HD video the D3s produced, though were disappointed it offered only 720p capture. The D3s's only major caveat is its substandard 12.1-megapixel of resolution. For most photographers, 12.1-megapixel will be more than enough but if you get in a situation where you need an extreme crop of an image, the D3s falls short. Otherwise though, this camera/lens combo packs a powerful one-two punch.

Nikon D3s & AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 ED VR II

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Pros: Best low light/high ISO performance we've seen from any camera on the market; HD video mode offers improve-ments against rolling shutter; better lens design; can handhold lens at slower shutter speeds compared to predecessor.

Cons: Resolution trails the competition and doesn't allow for extreme image crops; only 720p HD.

Price: D3s - $5,200 (body only); AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 ED VR II - $2,500