Nikon FG-20 35mm Camera Body, Chrome Review

The Nikon FG-20 is a budget-oriented 35mm SLR from the 1980s, designed as a stripped-down companion to the FG. It offers aperture priority auto-exposure with stepless shutter speeds, manual metering, and a mechanical backup speed of 1/90 sec. The camera accepts Nikon AI lenses only (non-AI lenses are incompatible), features center-weighted metering with an LED and needle display, and includes a hot shoe with no TTL flash metering. Shutter speeds run from 1 second to 1/1000 plus bulb, with flash sync at 1/90.

This is a straightforward, no-frills film camera aimed at beginners or those seeking a lightweight backup body. It lacks program modes and advanced flash metering found on pricier models, but it covers the essentials for aperture-priority shooting. The removable back and compatibility with Nikon accessories like the MD-E motordrive add some flexibility. At this price point, the FG-20 fits shooters who want a simple, mechanical-ish Nikon mount body without the cost or complexity of the FG or FE series.