What can you remember from a decade ago? Maybe some important events but not so many details right? In this article, we bring to remembrance a camera that was announced more than a decade ago: The Canon 1000D. We go ahead to compare the Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D in detail.
The D3100 is just 2 years and 2 months newer than the 1000D. Hence, both cameras are still regarded as being older cameras. Yet, these cameras still serve amateur photographers well in this present day.
Since these cameras are still suitable for amateur photographers, which of them should you go for? To answer that, you require sufficient knowledge about these cameras.
Therefore, we reveal all you need to know about these cameras. We discuss their common features, unique features as well as their pros and cons. This article is bound to arm you with sufficient knowledge you require to make a final decision.
You may also be interested in this Nikon D3100 vs Canon 500D.
Comparison Overview – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
The Nikon D3100 and the Canon 1000D are both entry-level DSLR cameras. Hence, they are bound to share certain similarities consistent with their camera level.
These similarities are noticed in their similar sensor formats and types. They have the same screen type as well as a resolution. Also, when these cameras are used in burst mode, they possess the same continuous shooting speed.
Neither camera possesses wireless connectivity features: They lack a built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth feature. This does not make either camera suitable for connectivity purposes.
If you love your camera being unique in terms of looks, the D3100 offers you the variety of two body colors: black and red. The Canon 1000D, on the other hand, is obtained in black and silver body color.
Another body difference between both cameras is their size. The 1000D is slightly smaller and lighter than the Nikon D3100.
The advantage of image quality goes to the D3100. Its sensor resolution is higher, has a better sensor performance, and a larger sensor. These enhance the camera’s ability to deliver better images.
One striking difference between both cameras is that the Canon 1000D cannot record videos. It is only a still-image camera. This is in contrast to the Nikon D3100 that can capture both still-image and motion-image.
If a score out of 100 is to be given to both cameras’ performance, the Nikon D3100 would register an overall score of 58. The Canon 1000D, on the other hand, has an overall score of 49. This score is an aggregate of these cameras’ imaging, features, value, and size scores.
Speaking of value, let’s look at the next section below.
Price/Value Ratio – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
Which camera offers more value for money?
The D3100 offers more value for money than the 1000D. Although it is more expensive, it offers more unique features such as video recording, HDMI port, flash sync port, and face detection focus, it is more expensive than the Canon 1000D.
Furthermore, in terms of all round performance, the Nikon D3100 does better than the 1000D.
The prices of both cameras are consistent with the price range for cameras within the entry-level category.
Comparison Table – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
| Nikon D3100 | Canon 1000D (Rebel XS) | |
| Announcement Date | 19th August 2010 | 10th June 2008 |
| Size Dimensions | 124 x 96 x 75mm | 126 x 98 x 65mm |
| Weight | 505g | 502g |
| Sensor Resolution | 14.2 megapixels | 10.1 megapixels |
| Sensor Size | 23.1 x 15.4mm | 22.2 x 14.8mm |
| Video Recording | 1080/24p | No video |
| Screen Size | 3.0 inches LCD | 2.5 inches LCD |
| ISO | 100 – 3200 (Expands to 100 – 12800) | 100 – 800 (Expands 100 – 1600) |
| Battery Life | 550 shots | 500 shots |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 2 | DIGIC 3 |
| HDMI Port | Yes | No |
| Flash Sync Port | Yes | No |
| Flash Coverage | 12.0m | 13.0m |
| Face Detection Focus | Yes | No |
| Focus Points | 11 | 7 |
| Color Depth | 22.5 | 22.0 |
| Dynamic Range | 11.3 | 10.9 |
| Low Light ISO | 919 | 719 |
| Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nikon D3100 14.2MP Digital SLR Double-Zoom Lens Kit with 18-55mm and 55-200mm DX Zoom Lenses (Black) (Discontinued by Manufacturer) | Prime | Buy Yours Now | ||
| Canon Rebel 1000D DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black) (OLD MODEL) | PrimeEligible | Buy Yours Now |
Prices and images pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
What Situation is Each Best For? – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
| Nikon D3100 | Canon 1000D (Rebel XS) |
| Portrait photography thrives on details produced by the camera used. When both cameras are compared, the Nikon D3100 supplies better-detailed images. This is thanks to its possession of a higher sensor resolution, larger sensor, and richer color depth. It also has a face detection focus feature. | The Canon 1000D is cheaper. Hence, anyone on a tight budget can readily afford it than the Nikon D3100. |
| The D3100 will do better when both cameras are used for street photography. Its all-round better sensor hands it the win in this category. | With more available lenses at its disposal, the 1000D can be used to create more diverse scenes. |
| Focusing ability is necessary when shooting sports events. Since the Nikon D3100 has more focus points, it proves to do better in this as well. Furthermore, with better battery life, this camera can shoot longer than the 1000D. So, you don’t get to miss the important moments. | The Canon 1000D doesn’t perform as well as the D3100. |
| Daily photographers consider the weight of a camera a great deal when making a new purchase. Comparing both cameras, their weight difference is very negligible. Therefore, we look at other features. Once again the better sensor of the Nikon D3100 gives it an edge. Furthermore, its thicker body which would have been a disadvantage offers the user a firmer grip as they go about shooting. | The Canon 1000D doesn’t perform as well as the D3100. |
| Like portrait photography, details are important for landscape photography. The higher sensor resolution, larger sensor, and higher dynamic range makes the D3100 better at capturing landscapes. | The Canon 1000D doesn’t perform as well as the D3100. |
| If your job requires video recording, we recommend the Nikon D3100. This is because the Canon 1000D cannot make videos. | The Canon 1000D doesn’t perform as well as the D3100. |
Watch the review of the Canon 1000D below.
Common Features – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
In this common features section, we discuss the similarities shared by both cameras. These features function at the same performance levels in both cameras.
The D3100 and the 1000D have the following similarities:
i. Sensor Format and Type
ii. Anti-Aliasing Filter
iii. Viewfinder
iv. Screen Resolution
v. Screen Type
vi. Continuous Shooting Speed
vii. Storage
viii. Built-in Flash
ix. Hot Shoe
x. USB Port
Sensor Format and Type
Sensors are important in the world of photography. DSRL cameras such as the ones in this comparison cannot do without them.
If a camera’s image quality were a company that had shares, the sensor will be the majority shareholder. This is because it has a major say on the image quality produced by a camera.
Just as the sensor affects the image quality of a camera, the sensor’s format and type also affect the sensor’s performance.
The Nikon D3100 and the Canon 1000D are both fitted with the APS-C sensor format and the sensor type (technology) is the CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor). The sensor format deals with the sensor size while the type refers to the technology upon which the sensor is made from.
The APS-C is a medium-sized sensor. It is larger than the 1 inch and four-thirds sensor formats but smaller than the full-frame and the medium format sensors.
Anti-Aliasing Filter
The anti-aliasing filter aka low pass filter is somewhat connected to the sensor. This filter is found just before the sensor. When an image is to be captured, the light gets to it before reaching the sensor.
The function of the AA filter in cameras is to prevent moiré in captured images. Moiré is the pattern of lines and spots that appear in a captured image. They occur when the repetitive patterns captured within the frame are higher in resolution than the sensor’s resolution.
Cameras such as the ones in this article possess low sensor resolutions, hence, the need for the anti-aliasing filter.
The consequence of the AA filter function is a reduction in the sharpness and details of the image captured. This is a result of the blurring effect of the filter as it blurs the repeating line patterns.
For cameras with higher sensor resolution, having an anti-aliasing filter might be a disadvantage, but it is suitable for these cameras.
Viewfinder
The viewfinder’s purpose in a camera is quite simple and straight-forward. It is there to ensure that your images are framed properly during image capture. Without this feature, most images captured will be out of frame.
Many folks use the display screens of the camera for view-finding purposes. However, they do not perform as well as a viewfinder would.
The performance of a viewfinder depends on the type, material, coverage, and its magnification.
The Nikon D3100 and the Canon 1000D employ an optical pentamirror viewfinder with a coverage of 95%. The slight difference between their viewfinders is the magnification. The D3100 and the 1000D have 0.53x and 0.51x magnification respectively.
Of what benefit is this kind of viewfinder sported by both cameras?
The type of viewfinder available for use is the optical or electronic viewfinder. With an optical viewfinder, battery consumption is saved unlike when the electronic viewfinder is employed. The latter depends on the camera’s battery power for it to function.
A viewfinder can be made from a pentamirror or pentaprism material. The latter is advantageous than the former. This is because it allows more light into the viewfinder. Hence, clearer and the brighter image is seen.
The viewfinder’s coverage refers to the field of view which it can see. The magnification, on the other hand, deals with how bold the images are seen can be.
Screen Resolution
We mentioned above that the camera’s screen can be used as a viewfinder. We also said that it does not do a good job. The extent to which a screen can perform the view-finding function, as well as other functions, depends on its screen resolution.
The screen resolution refers to the amount of detail a screen can efficiently display. It is measured in dots. With a good screen resolution, images are more detailed and colors are richer.
Both cameras in view possess the same screen resolution of 230,000 dots. This is very poor as the images displayed won’t be well-detailed.
Screen Type
The screen resolution is not the only screen similarity shared by these cameras. They also possess the same screen type.
These cameras are fitted with a fixed non-touch screen. This is a disadvantage for both cameras.
A fixed screen limits these cameras’ flexibility while shooting difficult angles. Also, a better viewing option is missed.
Both cameras also missed out on the touch screen feature. This would have made settings and controls accessibility easier and faster. Even during image capture, this feature can be employed for focusing purposes.
Continuous Shooting Speed
The Nikon D3100 and the Canon 1000D can shoot in burst mode otherwise known as continuous shooting mode.
In this mode, you can continuously capture several images for a while. This continues as long as the camera’s buffer can manage.
What makes shooting in this mode a delight is the camera’s continuous shooting speed. This speed refers to the number of images you can capture per second.
These cameras have a continuous shooting speed of 3 fps. That means they can capture 3 images in 1 second. This isn’t impressive when compared to other entry-level cameras.
Storage
The cameras in focus do not possess internal storage memory. How then do they store your files?
Both cameras are fitted with a single card slot storage that can house an SD card. The D3100 uses an SDXC card like the SanDisk 128GB Extreme SDXC UHS-I Card, while the 1000D employs an SDHC like the SanDisk 32GB Ultra SDHC UHS-I Memory Card for storage purposes.
A single card slot storage equals limited storage capacity when compared to cameras with dual card slots storage. Furthermore, storage flexibility and options are not available with a single card slot storage.
Built-in Flash
The Nikon D3100 and Canon 1000D are equipped with a built-in flash to rescue you from unpleasant low-light conditions.
Shooting in poor light can easily ruin your image. This is because the light is essential for quality image production.
The presence of a built-in flash reduces the constant need for an external flash. Also, you could hold on spending the extra cash on an external flash as you make use of the built-in flash.
Learn more about the Nikon D3100 setup in the video below.
Hot Shoe
The hot shoe feature is a platform found on cameras that allow the attachment of other accessories. These accessories include external flash, rangefinders, etc.
An external flash is the most used accessory with this feature. Therefore, the hot shoe is also known as the external flash shoe.
An external flash has more advantages over a built-in flash in terms of flash-power, coverage area, and versatility. Hence, despite the cost and the weight, it adds to the camera, many still purchase this accessory.
The D3100 and the 1000D possess the hot shoe feature. Therefore, an external flash can be used with these cameras.
Which external flash should you get is another article of its own. However, to make it easy for you, we’ll recommend the Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite.
USB Port
The Nikon D3100 and the Canon 1000D both sports a USB port (USB 2.0 precisely). This connectivity feature allows these cameras to connect to other devices that possess USB ports.
File transfer can be made from these cameras to these devices and vice versa once a USB cable is connected.
Unique Features – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
The unique features section deals with the features found in the Nikon D3100 and not in the Canon 1000D and vice versa. The differences between both cameras are revealed here.
Nikon D3100 Unique Features
The following are unique features found in the D3100 that are missing in the 1000D:
i. Records Video
ii. HDMI Port
iii. Flash Sync Port
iv. Face Detection Focus
v. EXPEED 2 Image Processor
vi. Nikon F Lens Mount
Records Video
One thing which the Nikon D3100 can do which the Canon 1000D can’t is a video recording. This gives the D3100 a huge advantage here as many folks look for cameras that can shoot both pictures and videos.
The Nikon D3100 carries out video recording in the 1080/24p frame rate.
HDMI Port
Both cameras may possess a USB 2.0 port, however, the D3100 takes it a step further when it comes to the wired connection. It is equipped with a mini HDMI port.
With this, this camera can connect to a larger screen via an HDMI cable. The images seen on the camera’s screen are then viewed on the larger screen to which the camera is connected.
This better view provided is appropriate for detecting angles that require editing. Also, watching movies with a larger screen is more fun.
Flash Sync Port
Another port feature found in the D3100 which is missing in the 1000D is the flash sync port.
The flash sync port enables the Nikon D3100 to connect to an external flash unit or several flashes. This feature is readily employed during portrait and studio photography.
Face Detection Focus
The face detection focus automatically detects faces within a frame and supply the right exposure and focus on them. This enhances the faces of subjects thereby making them more detailed and expressive.
Portrait photographers relish this feature a great deal and they can enjoy it with the Nikon D3100.
EXPEED 2 Image Processor
The image processor runs the operation of the camera just like the central processor unit in a computer system does.
Nikon and Canon cameras will always sport different image processors whenever they are compared. Maybe until one of them decides to use processors made by the other company. Or when they both make use of one from another manufacturer.
The Nikon company uses the EXPEED image processor series. The Nikon D3100 runs on the EXPEED 2. It was the first camera to make use of this processor before other Nikon cameras.
Nikon F Lens Mount
The D3100 is fitted with the Nikon F lens mount. From its name you can deduce that it belongs to the Nikon brand. Many of Nikon’s cameras are fitted with this lens mount.
The function of the lens mount is to hold the lenses in place and attach them to the camera’s body. The type of lens mount used determines the number and type of lenses a camera can make use of.
- 14.2 MP DX-format CMOS image sensor
- 3.0 LCD screen; 230,000 dots
- 1080p Full HD video
- 11 AutoFocus points
- 100-3200 IS0 (12800 expanded)
- JPEG +RAW shooting
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Canon 1000D Unique Features
The following are unique features found in the 1000D that are missing in the D3100:
i. DIGIC 3 Image Processor
ii. Canon EF Lens Mount
DIGIC 3 Image Processor
We stated above that the competing manufacturers in this article use exclusive processors. The Canon’s company exclusive image processor series is the DIGIC.
The Canon 1000D makes use of the DIGIC 3 which improves on the achievements of older DIGIC processors.
Canon EF Lens Mount
Yep, Canon has its lens mount like the Nikon company. The Canon EF lens mount is used in many of Canon’s cameras. The 1000D is one of these cameras.
The type and number of lenses that this lens mount supports will be discussed later.
- 10.1MP CMOS image sensor
- 2.5 LCD screen
- DIGIC 3 image processor
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Unique Pros – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
What advantages do these cameras have over one another? Which of them has a better performance level when certain features are compared? This section has the answers.
Nikon D3100 Unique Pros
Which has a Higher Sensor Resolution D3100 or 1000D?
The D3100 has a higher sensor resolution than the 1000D. It has the advantage of 14.2 megapixels over the Canon 1100D’s 10.1 megapixels. Hence, the Nikon D3100 has 4.1 more megapixels as a result.
Sensor resolution deals with the sensor’s ability to detect and also capture details. It is measured in megapixels. Higher sensor resolution is bound to produce better-detailed images than a lower sensor resolution.
Which has a Higher Maximum ISO D3100 or 1000D?
The D3100 has a higher maximum ISO than the 1000D. It has an ISO range of 100 – 3200 which can be expanded to a maximum value of 12800. The Canon 1000D, on the other hand, has an ISO range of 100 – 800 with an option of expanding to a maximum of 1600.
As a result, the Nikon D3100 has a 100% higher maximum ISO than the 1000D.
The ISO of a camera determines the sensor’s sensitivity in capturing light into the camera. It determines how well the camera can shoot irrespective of the lighting condition.
DSLR cameras have an ISO range that can be adjusted to suit the current lighting condition one is found in. A wider range means better light sensitivity.
Which has a Larger Sensor D3100 or 1000D?
The D3100 has a larger sensor than the 1000D. The Nikon D3100 and the Canon 1000D have a sensor size of 23.1 x 15.4mm and 22.2 x 14.8mm respectively. Hence, the D3100 is 8% larger which gives it an advantage over the 1000D.
This size difference accounts for the difference in their format factor (crop factor): 1.5 for the D3100 and 1.6 for the 1000D.
Despite sporting similar sensor formats (APS-C), these cameras’ sensors sizes differ.
A larger sensor enhances the camera’s ability to capture more details. Also, it enhances the following: dynamic range, color depth, low light ISO, individual pixels, and depth of field of control.
Learn how to clean your DSLR sensor in the video below.
Which has a Better Sensor Performance D3100 or 1000D?
The D3100 has a better sensor performance than the 1000D. When the Nikon D3100 and the Canon 1000D were tested, the D3100 had a higher score of 67.0 while the 1000D scored 62.0.
The color depth results for the D3100 and the 1000D are 22.5 bits and 22.0 bits respectively. So, the Nikon D3100 did better in this regard.
When the dynamic range was tested, the scores were 11.3 EV for the D3100, and 10.9 EV for the 1000D. The Nikon D3100 won this as well.
The last measurement is the low light ISO. The D3100 excels over the 1000D as it has a value of 919 while the latter measures 719.
The DXO mark company conducts tests on cameras’ sensors to reveal its image quality score. They then attribute a score after testing three sensor aspects which are the color depth, dynamic range, and low light ISO.
Color depth enhances a camera’s ability to produce more distinct colors and details. Its significance is experienced better in portrait pictures. No wonder it is also called the DXO portrait.
A wider dynamic range enables the sensor to detect details in the lightest and darkest point in a frame. It plays a major role in landscape photography. Hence, it is referred to as the DXO landscape.
A high low light ISO value allows you to capture clearer images in low light conditions. The role of the low light ISO is evident when shooting sports events. Therefore, it is also known as DXO sports.
Which has a Larger Screen D3100 or 1000D?
The D3100 has a larger screen than the 1000D. It offers more advantages with its 3.0 inches. The Canon 1000D, on the other hand, sports a 2.5 inches screen.
Having a larger view is a product of having a larger screen. A larger screen saves you the stress of squinting your eyes when going through the camera’s menu. Images can be better edited with larger screens too. Watching movies is also better on a larger screen.
Which has More Focus Points D3100 or 1000D?
The D3100 has more focus points than the 1000D. It has 4 more focus points than the Canon 1000D. 11 and 7 focus points are found in the Nikon D3100 and 1000D respectively.
Focus points allow you to emphasize certain points within the frame. These points are enhanced and better-detailed. More focus points ensure better detail across the frame.
Which has a Longer Battery Life D3100 or 1000D?
The D3100 has a longer battery life than the 1000D. It has a longer battery life of 50 shots. You get to shoot up to 550 shots after a full charge. Whereas, the Canon 1000D manages just 500 shots after being fully charged.
The Nikon D3100 is fitted with the EN-EL14 power pack while the 1000D uses the LP-E5 battery.
Which is Newer D3100 or 1000D?
The Nikon D3100 is newer than the Canon 1000D with 2 years and 2 months. Hence, this camera benefits from advancements in technology that have occurred during this time gap.
Canon 1000D Unique Pros
Which is Lighter 1000D or D3100?
The 1000D is slightly lighter than the D3100. It weighs 502g while the Nikon D3100 weighs 505g. The difference of 3g (1%) is not much of a big deal though and might not shift the tide in the Canon 1000D’s favor.
Weight is an important factor when choosing a camera. Lighter cameras are the fad today.
Which is Smaller 1000D or D3100?
The 1000D is smaller than the D3100. Its body measures 126 x 98 x 65mm while the Nikon D3100 has a body dimension of 124 x 96 x 75mm. Hence, the Canon 1000D to be 2mm wider and 2mm taller. However, the D3100 is 10mm thicker.
As a result, the 1000D is therefore slightly smaller than the Nikon D3100.
Which is Cheaper 1000D or D3100?
The Canon 1000D is 25% cheaper than the Nikon D3100 when their launch prices were compared. It is also the more discounted of the two which is a result of it being in the market for a longer period.
Which has a Longer Flash Coverage 1000D or D3100?
The 1000D has a longer flash coverage than the D3100. Its flash can reach a distance of 13.0m while the Nikon D3100’s flash will cover a distance of 12.0m.
Which has More Available Lenses 1000D or D3100?
The 1000D has more available lenses than the D3100. It can make use of 319 native lenses while the Nikon D3100 can use 302 native lenses.
Also, when the optical stabilization lenses available to these cameras are compared, the D3100 comes up short. It can use just 88 while the Canon 1000D can make use of 91.
We list the native lenses and the number available for both cameras below:
Canon 1000D – Standard zoom (40), standard prime (18), wide-angle zoom (35), wide-angle prime (48), telephoto zoom (58), telephoto zoom (58), telephoto prime (41), superzoom (28), wide-angle fisheye prime (7), macro prime (27), perspective control prime (16), telephoto mirror prime (1).
If we are to recommend a Canon lens, our pick would be the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens.
Nikon D3100 – Standard zoom (33), standard prime (20), wide-angle zoom (33), wide-angle prime (47), telephoto zoom (52), telephoto prime (42), superzoom (30), wide-angle fisheye prime (8), macro prime (25), perspective control prime (11), telephoto mirror prime (1).
If we are to recommend a Canon lens, our pick would be the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8G Lens.
Which has a Larger Pixel Pitch 1000D or D3100?
The 1000D has a larger pixel pitch than the D3100. The Canon 1000D and the Nikon D3100 have a pixel pitch of 5.71µm vs 5.01µm respectively. This means the 1000D’s pixel pitch is 14% larger.
Which has a Larger Sensor Pixel Area 1000D or D3100?
The 1000D has a larger sensor pixel area than the D3100. The Canon 1000D and the Nikon D3100 have a sensor pixel area of 32.60µm2 vs 25.12µm2. The 1000D therefore has a 29% larger sensor pixel area.
Are bigger pixels better? Find out in the next video.
Unique Cons – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
Canon 1000D Unique Cons
- It does not record video.
- It lacks an HDMI port.
- No face detection focus.
- Flash sync port is absent.
Common Pros – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
| Nikon D3100 | Canon 1000D (Rebel XS) | |
| Phase-Detect Autofocus System | A camera either makes use of the phase-detect autofocus system or the contrast-detect autofocus system. Some cameras though are known to make use of both. The D3100 makes use of the phase-detect AF system. This gives it an advantage as this AF system is faster and more precise than the contrast-detect AF system. It is because of this AF system that the Nikon D3100 can carry out subject tracking, continuous focusing, and other autofocus functions. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
| RAW Support | The Nikon D3100 supports the RAW format. Therefore, this camera can capture images and videos in this format. This is amazing as RAW formats are of better quality than the commonly used JPEG. Its uncompressed state allows for easier editing. The only issue is that they take up much storage space due to their large size. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
| AF Tracking | AF tracking is an autofocus function. It allows the camera to maintain a constant focus on a subject. No matter how the subject might move, the focus is locked on. This is handy when shooting subjects that are constant motion such as wildlife and sports players. Hence, this will serve wildlife and sports photography quite well. The D3100 possesses this useful feature. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
Common Cons – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
| Nikon D3100 | Canon 1000D (Rebel XS) | |
| No Environmental Sealing | Capturing images outdoor can be a bit of a hassle especially when the weather is bad. Many cameras battle this with the environmental sealing feature. The D3100 lacks this feature which means shooting outdoors in bad weather isn’t suitable for this camera. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
| Poor Shutter Life Expectancy | Shutter life is a measure of how long the shutter mechanism will last before it needs to be changed. It is measured using the number of shots captured by a camera. The shutter life expectancy does not necessarily mean that the camera stops working when it hits the number of actuations stated. It, however, serves as a minimum guarantee of how long it will last. The Nikon D3100 is considered to have a poor shutter life expectancy: Just 100,000 actuations. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
| No UHS Card Support | UHS cards allow for faster reading, writing and transfer of files at Ultra High Speeds. These transfers can be as fast as 104MB/s. The Nikon D3100 does not support these cards. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
| No Built-in Wi-Fi | Connectivity is important in our world today. And the Wi-Fi feature has made this convenient and faster. One can wirelessly connect with other Wi-Fi devices and transfer files. Cameras with this feature do this. They can also share images and videos directly to social media platforms. The Nikon D3100 lacks the built-in Wi-Fi feature. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
| No Image Stabilization | The image stabilization feature is used to counter blur in captured images. Blurred images are usually found in cameras with a slow shutter speed like the Nikon D3100. Having the image stabilization would have helped it out in this regard. Sadly, this feature is absent. Nevertheless, the D3100 can still over the occurrence of blurred images. This is possible when any of the 88 optical stabilization lenses at its disposal is used. | Same as Nikon D3100. However, the Canon 1000D can make use of 91 optical stabilization lenses. |
| No Articulating Screen | The D3100 does not have an articulating screen as its screen is fixed. An articulating screen would have afforded this camera flexibility in capturing difficult angles. Furthermore, street photographers, wildlife photographers, and vloggers tend to opt for cameras with this screen type. Hence, the Nikon D3100 could miss potential customers from these groups. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
| No AE Bracketing | The absence of this feature makes the Nikon D3100 not suitable for multi-exposure HDR. This feature is quite handy when shooting in tough lighting conditions and HDR. It automatically adjusts the camera’s settings to suit the lighting condition of the shooting location. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
| No AF Micro Adjustment (Fine Tune) | The AF micro-adjustment feature enables a camera to fine-tune its autofocus. Since this feature is absent in the Nikon D3100, fine-tuning cannot be done with this camera. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
| No Built-in GPS | The built-in GPS allows the acquisition of precise location anywhere on the planet. When this is fitted in cameras, they can carry out the geotagging function. Geotagging allows one to add the current location to a captured image. Wildlife and landscape photographers use this function than others. The D3100 lacks a built-in GPS, therefore, it cannot geotag. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
| No Microphone Port | The Nikon D3100 lacks a microphone port. This would have enhanced audio recording when an external microphone is connected to the camera. | Same as Nikon D3100. However, the 1000D does need this feature. Audio recording is possible while a video is made. Since this camera cannot record video, having a microphone port would have been foolish on the part of the manufacturers. Hence, the absence of this feature is inevitable due to the reason above. |
| No Panorama | With the panorama feature, you can stitch several pictures together to create a single panoramic photo. This cannot be done with the Nikon D3100. | Same as Nikon D3100 |
Check out these other interesting comparison articles below:
Nikon D3100 vs Canon 450D – Which Is Better For You?
Nikon D3200 vs Canon 650D – Extensive Comparison
Nikon D3200 vs D60 – In-depth Comparison
Nikon D5200 vs Canon 70D – Which Should You Go For?
Nikon D7000 vs Canon 600D – Detailed Comparison
Nikon D3100 vs Canon T3i – Which is Better For You?
General Feeling Among Users – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
| Nikon D3100 | Canon 1000D (Rebel XS) |
| A Nikon D3100 user praised this camera for its several beginner options. | The body build and grip of the Canon 1000D was applauded by a user. |
| A certain user was excited about the pre-programmed scenes found in the Nikon D3100. | Many amateur photographers were pleased with the picture quality. |
| Some users complained about the occurrence of noise. Especially when shooting in low light. | The occurrence of noise and grain occurred when used in low light. |
| One user praised it for lasting long. It was said to be functional even after 7 years of purchase. | This camera was also said to be durable and long-lasting despite being used for long. |
| The price of the Nikon D3100 was said to be affordable and quite a deal by many users. | Users praised this camera for its cheap price. |
Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D – FAQs
How do I connect my Canon 1000D to my computer?
The following steps will guide you on how to connect your Canon 1000D to your computer:
i. Turn on the camera.
ii. Display the camera’s menu by pressing the Menu button.
iii. Turn off the Auto power off settings. You will find this setting in the first tab with a wrench icon.
iv. Turn off the camera’s display by pressing the Menu button.
v. Turn off the camera.
vi. Connect the camera to your computer with the recommended USB cable.
vii. Turn on the camera.
viii. The EOS utility will open on your computer.
You can now perform any function you want.
How do I reset my Canon EOS 1000D?
Follow the steps below to reset your Canon EOS 1000D:
i. Turn on your camera.
ii. Rotate the mode dial to “P”.
iii. Display the menu by pressing the Menu button.
iv. Use the right navigation key to scroll to the sixth menu.
v. Select the “Clear settings” option with the down navigation key.
vi. Press Set.
vii. Choose the “Clear all camera settings” option.
viii. Press Set.
ix. You will be asked to confirm, choose Ok then press Set.
x. After that, select and reset the “Clear all custom func.” too.
How do you turn the flash off on a Canon EOS 1000D?
You can turn off the Canon EOS 1000D’s flash by setting the shooting mode to “Flash Off”.
Or you can change the setting of your camera’s flash from the Quick Control Screen with the following steps:
i. Press the “Q” (Quick Control) button.
ii. Use the navigation side keys to choose “Auto built-in flash” or “Flash on”.
iii. Rotate the control dial and choose “Built-in flash off”.
If the Canon 1000D is not set manually this way, the flash will automatically fire itself depending on the mode it is set to and the lighting conditions.
How do I transfer photos from Canon 1000D to computer?
You can transfer photos from the Canon 1000D to a computer by any of these methods:
i. Connecting the camera directly to a computer using a USB cable.
ii. Using a card reader.
Transferring photos to a computer from Canon 1000D via USB cable:
i. Turn on your camera.
ii. Connect the USB cable to your camera and your computer.
iii. A window will pop up on your computer.
Transferring photos to a computer from Canon 1000D via card reader:
i. Turn off your camera.
ii. Remove the memory card.
iii. Insert it into a card reader.
iv. Insert the card reader into your computer.
How do I connect an external flash to my Canon camera?
Follow the steps below to connect an external flash to your Canon camera:
i. Insert the flash on into your camera’s hot shoe.
ii. Turn on the camera.
iii. Reset all the camera’s flash settings.
iv. Choose a flash mode.
v. Choose a shooting mode.
vi. Choose a shutter synchronization mode.
vii. Change the ISO speed.
viii. Set exposure compensation to alter background brightness.
ix. Set the flash exposure compensation to alter flash output.
x. Alter the flash’s head angle to suit your shot.
Now shoot away.
Final Thoughts – Nikon D3100 vs Canon 1000D
| Nikon D3100 | Canon 1000D (Rebel XS) |
| If you need a reliable entry-level camera, then the Nikon D3100 will serve you well. It’s a camera designed to meet the needs of any amateur photographer. | The Canon 1000D might not meet up the demands of today’s DSLR cameras. Nevertheless, this camera will be a smooth transition for anyone who is a beginner when it comes to DSLR cameras. |
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