CameraReview
Phase One P40 Plus
54
SCORE
Phase One · Medium Format · 40 MP · Medium Format

Phase One P40 Plus

General 54Optics 71Features and Benefits 14Storage and Battery 51
KEY FACTS
BrandPhase One
ModelP40 Plus
Released2009
Announcement date29/04/2009
Camera typeMedium Format

General 54

Brand
Phase One
Model
P40 Plus
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2009
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
29/04/2009
Camera type
Medium Format
Camera size
154 x 128 x 184 mm
Camera weight
1030 g

Optics 71

Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
40 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6496 x 4872
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CCD
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
32.9 x 43.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Medium Format
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
2 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Mamiya 645 AF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Phase-One
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
4:3
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
5030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
32003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
5030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
32003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
6044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
1000080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
30300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
No
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder dots
N/A
Read our notes on optics

The Phase One P40 Plus has a score of 54/100, placing it in the medium format category. Announced on April 29, 2009, and released the same year, it was initially priced at $19,500. The camera measures 154 x 128 x 184mm and weighs 1030g (2.27lbs). Despite being over a decade old, the P40 Plus remains a reliable choice for specific photography needs. However, its specifications are no longer competitive in the current market, as newer models have surpassed it in terms of performance and features.

Phase One P40 Plus Overview and Optics

The Phase One P40 Plus receives a score of 71 out of 100 for its optics. This camera features a 40-megapixel CCD sensor, a Phase-One processor, and a Mamiya 645 AF lens mount. Its sensor has a DXOMARK score of 87 and is of medium format size, providing a 4:3 aspect ratio. However, the shooting speed of 2 frames per second and lack of image stabilization may hinder its performance in certain situations.

In the current market, the Phase One P40 Plus holds its own with a respectable resolution and sensor quality. The medium format sensor offers an advantage in capturing detailed images, and the Mamiya 645 AF lens mount allows for compatibility with a range of lenses. Yet, the absence of image stabilization and a relatively slow shooting speed limit its versatility, especially for action photography or low-light situations.

Taking all factors into account, the Phase One P40 Plus presents a solid option for those prioritizing image quality and resolution. The camera’s optics are competitive, but potential buyers should weigh the importance of shooting speed and image stabilization for their specific needs.

Phase One P40 Plus Video Performance

Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
No
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
N/A
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
N/A
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
N/A
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
No
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
N/A
Read our notes on phase one p40 plus video performance

The Phase One P40 Plus, unlike most cameras, lacks video capabilities. This camera focuses solely on photography and does not offer any video features.

Phase One P40 Plus Features and Benefits 14

Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
No
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
Yes
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
No
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
No
Screen type
LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
No
Screen size
2.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2304001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
No
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
No
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Yes
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
No
Read our notes on phase one p40 plus features and benefits

The Phase One P40 Plus features a score of 14/100. This score reflects the camera’s specifications, which include a 2.2-inch screen with a resolution of 230,400 dots. The camera does not have a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, or Bluetooth. However, it does include Wi-Fi connectivity.

Comparing these features to current market standards, the P40 Plus falls short in several areas. The screen size and resolution are lower than many modern cameras, and the lack of a touchscreen and flip screen limit its versatility. GPS and Bluetooth are also common features in today’s cameras, which the P40 Plus lacks.

Despite its low feature score, the Phase One P40 Plus still offers Wi-Fi connectivity, which can be useful for photographers who need to transfer images quickly. However, the camera’s other limitations make it a less competitive option in the current market.

Phase One P40 Plus Storage and Battery 51

Memory card
Compact Flash
Dual memory card slots
No
Battery type
BP-915
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
2500 shots1505000
USB charging
No
Read our notes on phase one p40 plus storage and battery

The Phase One P40 Plus receives a storage and battery score of 51/100. This camera has a single memory card slot, accepting only Compact Flash cards. In today’s market, many cameras offer multiple card slots and support for a range of memory card types, which could be an area for improvement for the P40 Plus.

Regarding battery life, the P40 Plus can take 2500 shots per charge with its BP-915 battery. This is a decent number of shots, but the camera lacks USB charging capabilities. Modern cameras often include this feature, making it easier to recharge on-the-go.

To sum up, the P40 Plus has satisfactory storage and battery specifications, but improvements could be made to stay competitive in the current market.