Nikon D4S

Although the Nikon D4S is an evolutionary rather than revolutionary continuation of the earlier D4 model, it's still as good as full-frame cameras come. There's little to separate this from theCanon EOS 1D X although, in our view, this is the camera with the best autofocus system released to date.

Shoot at the "normal" ISO settings - the extended settings become absurd, with ISO 409,600 a bit out there - and results are excellent, but it's the D4S's ability to assist in getting the shots that matter that makes it such an exceptional bit of kit.

For the average consumer this is the Ferrari of cameras: out of reach in both price and realistic use. For the pros out there it will be a potentially priceless tool, albeit one that only a handful will see as an immediate upgrade necessity.

PRICE: £5,200 (body only)