How to Check Shutter Count (2026) – Complete Inspection Guide
6 min read • Updated March 2026
Shutter count is the single most important metric when buying a used camera. This guide shows you exactly how to check it and what numbers to look for.
What is Shutter Count?
Every camera shutter has a rated lifespan, measured in actuations. A Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is rated to 150,000 actuations; a Nikon D850 to 200,000. Shutter count tells you how many times the shutter has fired — essentially how "used" the camera is.
How to Check Shutter Count
Take a test shot with the camera, save it as a JPEG, and upload it to a free online shutter count tool like ShutterCount.com or Exiftool. The EXIF metadata embedded in every photo contains this information.
What's a Safe Shutter Count?
A camera at 30–50% of its rated life is considered safe. One at 80–90% should be priced accordingly. A camera that has exceeded its rated shutter count isn't necessarily broken — shutters often outlast their ratings — but factor in potential replacement costs (£200–£400).
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