NIKON ML-L3
WIRELESS REMOTE SHUTTER RELEASE | PRICE: $20
| RANGE: | 8.0 |
| DURABILITY: | 9.0 |
| BATTERY: | 9.5 |
| VALUE: | 10.0 |
| OVERALL: | 9.0 |
| PROS | CONS |
| Affordable | Directional IR |
| Works Great | |
| Easy to Use |
SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION
The Nikon ML-L3 (NIKON# 4730) is a wireless remote control to remotely perform shutter control and autofocus. It is primarily used for Nikon’s mainstream DSLRs, however it does work with the Nikon 1 mirrorless camera system along with some advanced Coolpix cameras. It is handy when taking group photos or photos that you would like to appear in. It comes packaged with a small case. Oh, and it's made in China, hence the affordability.
The ML-L3 has one simple button for shutter release. It does not have the capability to press it half way down to autofocus. Instead, it autofocuses just before it fires the shot. It is extremely handy for group shots, or times when you do not want to wait for the timer. Most of Nikon’s DSLR provide the ability to fire it directly or with a short 2 second pause / timer feature.
At most retail locations you can purchase the ML-L3 for about $20. However, eBay usually has them at half that price. I would first try eBay. If you prefer other online stores, try Amazon or Adorama.
PERFORMANCE
HOW IT WORKS
The Nikon ML-L3 features a one button simple design. It uses Infrared (IR) to transmit to the camera for the desired shutter release.
INFRARED SENSOR RANGE
The range from the remote to the camera can be quite far. I’ve used mine up to 50 feet (15 meters) away. However it is very directional. You need to be within the cameras sensor range. This depends more on the camera than on the remote, and sometimes what lens you are using as I have had lenses limit the sensor’s field of view on the camera. This of course is not true for the Nikon D3200, as it has two IR sensors, one in the front and one in the back!
BATTERY LIFE
The battery life is quite good for the ML-L3. I have no complaints here. It uses a 3V lithium watch battery (CR2025). I use mine from time to time and it has lasted well over several years. One quick note, when packing it for a trip, be sure not to put it where it may be pressed, as that would drain the battery quickly.
VIDEO CAPBILITY
The Nikon ML-L3 does not work with Video as you’d expect it to. In live view, it assumes you want to use it to take a photo rather than record a video. This is its biggest down side. I would love this to re-focus my videos or trigger the record capability. Unfortunately this is not the case with the ML-L3.
COMPATIBILITY
The Nikon ML-L3 wireless remote shutter control is compatible with a variety of Nikon cameras, including the newer Nikon 1 mirrorless camera system and even some Coolpix, although it is most commonly used for Nikon’s mainstream DSLRs. Unfortunately the professional level DSLRs do not utilize it. I guess Nikon wants you to purchase there more expensive remote devices. What a rip off. I prefer using Photix brand remotes for Nikon’s professional series cameras, as they are considerably cheaper and work well.
Below are some compatible popular cameras:
- Nikon D600
- D7000
- D5100
- D5000
- Nikon D3200
- D3000
- D90
- D80
- D70
- D40
- D40x
- D60
- Nikon J1
- Nikon V1
- Coolpix P7000
- Coolpix P7100
CONCLUSION
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Should you think you have the need for a remote control, and you have a compatible camera, I would highly recommend the ML-L3 remote control. It works great and is simple to use.
