The act of comparing is an innate behavior that is as ancient as time itself. We have compared ourselves to others, objects to other objects, and what-not. Man is simply driven this way. Therefore, we have been driven to compare the Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100 in this in-depth article.
These two Nikon cameras have established themselves as reliable amateur cameras. However, our comparison aims to establish which of them is more reliable. Which of these two does the job better?
To satisfy our aim, we will compare their specifications and reveal the kind of photography they are most suited for. Furthermore, we discuss their common features, peculiar features, as well as their common pros and cons.
Before we get into all that, we give you a brief comparison overview of both cameras. However, it might not supply you with all you need to know about these cameras. Hence, we advise that you read the whole article.
Comparison Overview – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
The Nikon D3300 is a basic entry-level amateur DSLR camera while the Nikon D5100 is an upper-entry amateur DSLR camera.
The technology available to these cameras when they were announced gives the D3300 certain advantages over the D5100 which is responsible for its better image quality. Yet, the Nikon D5100 has the upper hand when it comes to certain amazing features that the D3300 lacks such as the articulating screen.
The body of the Nikon D3300 is made of carbon-fiber-reinforced-polymer. This material accounts for its lightweight which is another edge over the Nikon D5100. Furthermore, the D3300 can be gotten in black, grey, and red colors while the D5100 is available in black only.
One thing amateur photographers that purchase the Nikon D3300 will be thrilled with is its built-in tutorial guide feature. (We talk more about this in the unique features section).
Both cameras fail in terms of connectivity as neither possesses a built-in WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth feature.
One might wonder if the absence of these connectivity features accounts for the cheap prices of these cameras? We can’t say for certain except both cameras are very affordable.
Price/Value Ratio – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
Which camera offers more value for money?
The Nikon D3300 offers more value for money than the Nikon D5100.
It is cheaper yet it does better than the D5100 when it comes to certain important features.The D3300 has a higher sensor resolution, higher maximum ISO, higher screen resolution, faster continuous shooting speed, faster video frame rates, longer battery life, better color depth, better low light ISO, improved image processor, and faster startup time.
However, it doesn’t mean the D5100 is not worth its price; the Nikon D3300 just does better when compared to the upper-entry level DSLR.
Comparison Table – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
| Nikon D3300 | Nikon D5100 | |
| Announcement Date | 7th January 2014 | 5th April 2011 |
| Sensor Resolution (Megapixels) | 24.2 megapixels | 16. 1 megapixels |
| Sensor Size | 23.5 x 15.6mm | 23.6 x 15.6mm |
| ISO | 100 – 12800 (25600 expanded) | 100 – 6400 (12800 expanded) |
| Screen Resolution | 1,040,000 dots | 920,000 dots |
| Articulating Screen | No | Yes |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 5 fps | 4 fps |
| Weight | 430g | 560g |
| Size Dimensions | 124 x 98 x 76mm | 128 x 97 x 79mm |
| Time Lapse Recording | No | Yes |
| Battery Life | 700 shots | 660 shots |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 4 | EXPEED 2 |
| Anti-Aliasing Filter | No | Yes |
| HDR | No | Yes |
| Panorama | Yes | No |
| Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nikon D3300 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR with Auto Focus-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II Zoom Lens (Black) | PrimeEligible | Buy Yours Now | ||
| Nikon D5100 16.2MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-Inch Vari-Angle LCD Monitor | Prime | Buy Yours Now |
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Check out the video below
What Situation is Each Best For? – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
| Nikon D3300 | Nikon D5100 |
| Portrait photography deals with detailed images, and the Nikon D3300 delivers such images better than the D5100. This is thanks to its higher sensor resolution than the Nikon D5100. Besides, the D3300 lacks an anti-aliasing filter, unlike the Nikon D5100. The presence of this filter affects the sharpness and details of an image. | The major problem that street photographers face is how to capture certain difficult angles. However, with an articulating screen, this is no longer a problem. Hence, street photographers are bound to enjoy using the Nikon D5100 instead of the D3300 that has a fixed screen. |
| The Nikon D3300 is the better-suited camera for capturing sports events. There are so many reasons why this is the case. Nevertheless, we will mention just three reasons. First of all, the D3300 has a longer battery life which allows the photographer to capture more shots than that which the Nikon D5100 offers. Also, it has a faster continuous shooting speed which is very helpful in capturing fast motion. Lastly, it has a higher low-light ISO. | The D5100 doesn’t perform as well as the Nikon D3300. |
| Looking at the features of both cameras, the only reason that gives the Nikon D3300 the edge as the slightly better daily photography camera is its lighter weight. Carrying a heavy camera is not a thing of joy especially when you get to shoot for long. | Despite being larger and heavier, some folks that prefer larger and heavier cameras might opt for the Nikon D5100 over the D3300. |
| The higher sensor resolution of the Nikon D3300 once again hands it the win as the better landscape camera. | The D5100 doesn’t perform as well as the Nikon D3300. |
Common Features – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
The following are the similarities between the D3300 and the D5100:
i. Sensor Format and Type
ii. Lens Mount and Lenses
iii. Screen Size
iv. Viewfinder
v. Built-in Flash
vi. Hot Shoe
vii. Microphone Port
viii. Autofocus System
Let’s discuss these features in detail.
Sensor Format and Type
The sensor is an integral part of a camera with a very important function to play. It determines the overall quality of your image.
Looking closely at the Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100, it is readily observed that both cameras are fitted with an APS-C format sensor: Which is also known as the DX-format within the Nikon community.
When compared to other sensor formats, the APS-C format is regarded as medium-sized. It is larger than the 1 inch and MFT format sensors but smaller than the full-frame and medium format sensors.
The APS-C format is well suited for the cameras in this comparison. Bigger sensors are naturally heavy however this sensor format doesn’t add much weight to the camera.
Also, these cameras make use of the CMOS sensor type. The D3300’s CMOS sensor is manufactured by Nikon while the D5100’s sensor is manufactured by Sony.
Lens Mount and Lenses
The Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 are interchangeable lens cameras. In other words, these cameras can change their lens and make use of different lenses. This is made possible thanks to the use of a lens mount.
The lens mount is used to hold the lens in place. The number and types of lenses a camera can use are dependent on the type of lens mount a camera is fitted with.
The Nikon F lens mount is fitted in both cameras in focus. This lens mount is commonly used by nearly all the DSLR cameras manufactured by Nikon. With this lens mount, the D3300 and the D5100 can use 302 native lenses and 88 optical stabilization lenses.
Apart from the variety of lenses you get to use, the Nikon F lens mount allows you to use old lenses from cameras that used the same lens mount.
One lens that you cannot go wrong with which we recommend and is suitable for these cameras is the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus.
Screen Size
The screen also known as the display screen is used to view captured images, images about to be captured, and the camera’s menu settings.
The screen size is important as it gives one a better and clearer view. Hence, most manufacturers are making cameras with larger screens these days.
The Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 both sport 3 inches LCD screen.
Viewfinder
A viewfinder is used to properly frame and control shots. The absence of a viewfinder would lead to wrongly framed images. The screen sometimes can perform this function but not as effective as the viewfinder.
The cameras in this comparison both possess an optical pentamirror eye-level viewfinder. This type of viewfinder has its pros and cons which we discuss below.
A viewfinder could be an optical or electronic viewfinder. The optical viewfinder is usually used by amateur DSLR camera like the ones in this comparison. It has a major edge over the electronic or digital viewfinder.
An optical viewfinder can function independently of the camera’s battery power. An electronic viewfinder, on the other hand, needs to make use of power if it is to be operational. By extension, this power consumption shortens the battery’s longevity.
The viewfinder is made from either a pentamirror or pentaprism. The type of material used determines the amount of light that passes through into the viewfinder.
The pentamirror is at a disadvantage here as it does not allow much light in like the pentaprism. Therefore the pentamirror does not offer bright images.
When we mention eye-level concerning viewfinders, we are talking about a viewfinder that can only be used when it is placed close to the eye. The use of an eye-level viewfinder allows the photographer to frame and control his shot even when the sun is very bright. A viewfinder that is not eye-level can be easily disturbed by the rays from the sun.
The viewfinders of the Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 have 95% coverage. The magnification, however, is different as the D3300 and the D5100 have a value of 0.57x and 0.52x respectively.
Find out more about the differences between an optical viewfinder and an electronic viewfinder in the video below.
Built-in Flash
The job of a built-in flash is pretty simple and straightforward: It exists to illuminate poorly lit conditions. Without the presence of a built-in flash, some pictures cannot be captured when the light is poor.
Therefore, cameras like the Nikon D3300 and the D5100 are fitted with a built-in flash. The flashes of these cameras can cover 13m range given that it is shot at ISO 100.
Hot Shoe
The built-in flash can be depended upon to help you out of messy situations, however, it is advisable not to depend on it completely. This is because the built-in flash as capable as it may be is limited in certain areas where an external flash easily trumps.
To make use of an external flash one requires a hot shoe. The hot shoe is an external platform that allows one to connect with different accessories: Usually, this is used for an external flash. Without a hot shoe, an external flash cannot be directly used with a camera.
With an external flash like the Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite, limitations of a built-in flash such as less flash power, poor flash coverage, less usage versatility, and appearance of red-eye are reduced.
Because of these advantages, photographers prefer carrying an external flash along despite the added weight.
Microphone Port
The Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 both sport a built-in microphone for recording audio during video shoots. However, like the built-in flash feature, this microphone does not deliver quality audio.
Fortunately, these cameras are fitted with a microphone port. This port allows an external microphone to be connected to these cameras.
An external microphone like the Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone provides the much-needed quality audio which the built-in microphone fails to deliver.
Autofocus System
The autofocus system is another feature wherein these cameras are similar to each other. There are minor differences though but the major aspects of the autofocus systems are the same.
The stand out aspect wherein the Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 are similar is the use of the phase detection autofocus. The other option available is the contrast-detection autofocus. Therefore, the question is; what benefits do these cameras enjoy from using this autofocus system?
Let’s quickly run through some benefits of the phase detection autofocus:
i. The phase-detection is better at capturing subjects that are in constant motion. Therefore, the D3300 and the D5100 can comfortably capture sports events and wildlife.
ii. It makes use of autofocus tracking which keeps your camera constantly locked onto subjects during photo shoots.
iii. Continuous focusing is employed during video shoots and it enables these cameras to maintain focus on the subjects being captured.
iv. Face detection focus is another benefit. With this feature, the cameras can automatically detect faces within a frame and then exposes them properly. This makes the D3300 and the D5100 also excellent at capturing a portrait.
Just as the phase-detection has its benefits; it also has certain cons which we briefly mention below:
i. You cannot place the autofocus points close to the edge of the frame.
ii. It cannot be used in movie mode or live view mode.
iii. There is a bit of difficulty with the focus accuracy when shooting subjects that have low contrast.
iv. Errors are bound to occur when a wide aperture is used.
v. In low-light conditions, it may not function properly.
When it comes to the number of focus points possessed by these cameras we discover they both have 11. Out of these 11 focus points, only 1 is cross-type.
Unique Features – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
Nikon D3300 Unique Features – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
The following are features that the D3300 has that the D5100 does not have:
i. Panorama
ii. Built-in Tutorial Guide
Panorama
The panorama feature allows you to bring several pictures together to form a panoramic photo. The Nikon D3300 possesses this feature.
Built-in Tutorial Guide
This feature truly shows us that the Nikon Company truly had beginner photographers in mind when they manufactured the Nikon D3300.
The built-in tutorial guide walks one through on how to operate the camera. It also familiarizes beginners with certain photography concepts and shooting modes they most likely didn’t know.
- 24.2 Megapixels CMOS DX format image sensor
- 5 FPS continuous shooting
- 11 AutoFocus points
- 100-12800 ISO (can be expanded to 25600)
- 1080 full HD video (MOV/MPEG 4/H.264)
- 3 LCD screen; 921,000 dots
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Nikon D5100 Unique Features – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
The following are features that the D5100 has that the D3300 does not have:
i. Articulating Screen
ii. Time-Lapse Recording
iii. AE Bracketing
iv. Anti-Aliasing Filter
v. Built-in HDR Mode
Articulating Screen
The articulating screen is the first major difference between the screens of the Nikon D5100 and the Nikon D3300. The D5100’s screen can be tilted, turned, and swiveled thanks to this feature.
It does not just act as a fancy design but enables the photographer to capture angles that would be difficult to capture with a fixed screen.
Street and wildlife photographers are bound to enjoy this feature more than other types of photographers.
Since the screen can be fully turned to face the user, the Nikon D5100 makes for an excellent vlogging camera. And this screen makes the camera selfie-friendly.
Time-Lapse Recording
Time-lapse recording is a creative feature that allows the user to make a short video from the combination of several pictures captured at different times of a specific subject.
Traffic in the city, sunsets or sunrise, and growing plants are some video examples one can create with this feature.
The Nikon D5100 is fitted with a built-in intervalometer which is why the camera can create a time-lapse video. With this feature, you can capture images even at low frequency.
An external trigger and software must be purchased if one wants to carry out this function without a built-in intervalometer.
AE Bracketing
This automatic feature adjusts the settings of the Nikon D5100 when you switch locations with different lighting conditions. Such occurrences aren’t strange, therefore, it is more convenient than having to adjust the settings yourself.
Learn more about the AE bracketing feature in the next video.
Anti-Aliasing Filter
The anti-aliasing filter is found in front of the sensor and it prevents the occurrence of moiré in captured images.
To achieve this, it reduces the amount of light that passes through to the sensor. That is why it is also called a low pass filter. The Nikon D5100 is fitted with the anti-aliasing filter.
The downside of this feature is that it affects the details and sharpness of the image negatively. Due to this issue, some cameras like the Nikon D3300 do not have this feature. Most professionals do not feel the need to have this filter since certain sensor technological advancements have overcome the occurrence of moiré.
Built-in HDR Mode
With the HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode, the camera can capture two images with multi-exposure and then combine these pictures to form one quality picture. The pictures produced using HDR mode have better details, better tones, better quality pictures, and less noise.
- 3 921,000-dots horizontal Vari-Angle LCD screen
- HDR and In-camera Special Effects Mode
- 1080p full HD videos
- 16.2 Megapixels DX-format CMOS image sensor
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 D3300 vs Nikon D5100
Nikon D3300 Unique Pros – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
Which has a Higher Sensor Resolution D3300 or D5100?
The Nikon D3300 has a higher sensor resolution of 50% more than the Nikon D5100. The D3300 and the D5100 have a sensor resolution of 24.2 megapixels and 16.1 megapixels respectively.
The sensor resolution of a camera refers to the amount of detail a camera can capture.
Higher sensor resolution means more details than a sensor with a lower resolution. Besides, with a higher sensor resolution, you can crop images freely as well as print larger images.
The higher the sensor resolution, the more likely it is for the image quality to remain the same. Lower sensor resolutions are susceptible to grains and blur when larger images are printed or during image cropping.
It is worth mentioning that the sensor resolution alone does not determine overall picture quality. Other factors include composition, lens used, lighting, etc.
Which has a Higher Maximum ISO D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 has a higher maximum ISO than the D5100.
The minimum ISO of the Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 are the same at 100 ISO. However, these cameras have different maximum ISOs.
The D3300 has a maximum ISO of 12800 while the D5100 has a maximum ISO of 6400. These maximum ISOs can still be expanded to reach a value of 25600 and 12800 for the Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 respectively.
The importance of adequate lightning as a determining factor of a quality image cannot be overemphasized. It is the sensor that traps in light into the camera; however, all sensors are not the same.
The ISO is a measurement of the sensor’s sensitivity to capture available light. A higher maximum ISO means the sensor is more sensitive and can capture a clear image despite poor lighting conditions.
Using a very high ISO can cause your image to produce grain or noise. That’s why most photographers don’t exceed ISO 6400 because those occurrences are more common once you exceed that. If one is skilled enough, he or she could balance the shutter and the ISO thereby avoiding such occurrences while still using higher ISO values.
Which has a Higher Screen Resolution D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 has a higher screen resolution than the D5100. The Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 have a screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots and 921,000 dots respectively.
Screen resolution deals with the number of details a camera’s screen can efficiently deliver and display. A higher screen resolution produces better details and richer colors. The screen resolution is measured in bits.
Which has a Faster Continuous Shooting Speed D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 has a faster continuous shooting speed than the D5100. The Nikon D3300 can capture 5 (fps) frames per second while the Nikon D5100 can capture 4 (fps) frames per second.
Burst mode is a feature that allows one to capture several pictures at once within a short time. One of two factors that limit how long one can shoot in burst mode is the continuous shooting speed.
The continuous shooting speed refers to the number of pictures a camera can capture in a second.
Which has a Faster Video Frame Rates D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 has a faster video frame rate than the D5100. It captures video at a faster speed of 1080/60p while the D5100 records at a 1080/30p speed.
A faster frame rate means a better ability to capture more motion.
The Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 are capable video cameras that can capture MPEG-4 format videos. Both cameras have the same video resolution of 1920 x 1080 full HD.
Which is Cheaper D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 is slightly cheaper than the D5100. It had a cheaper launching price.
The Nikon D5100, on the other hand, is the more discounted camera because it has been in the market for 3 years longer.
The price of a camera is very important. Most people go for amateur cameras such as the Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 because of their low-cost prices.
Which is Lighter D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 is lighter than the D5100. It weighs 430g while the D5100 weighs 560g. This means the D3300 is 130g (30%) lighter.
Therefore, a good number of photographers would opt for the Nikon D3300 over the Nikon D5100.
A lighter weight camera is always preferred over a heavier one. This is because a heavy camera could become a burden as one works.
This is especially important to those who shoot for long periods. The neck (hanging the camera) and the hands are bound to feel the pain after some time.
Also, the fact that most DSLR cameras make use of interchangeable lenses, the type of lens used will add to the overall weight of the camera.
Other accessories attached to the camera such as external flash, rangefinder, etc can also increase the overall weight. These reasons and more is why photographers consider weight a big deciding factor.
Which is Smaller D33000 or D5100?
The D3300 is smaller than the D5100. When we compare the Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100, we discover they have a size dimension of 124 x 98 x 76mm and 128 x 97 x 79mm respectively.
Therefore, the D3300 is 4mm narrower, 1mm taller, and 3mm thinner: It is 2% smaller than the D5100.
Just like the weight of the camera is an important factor, so also is the size of the camera. Portable cameras, especially among amateur cameras, are advantageous than bulky ones.
Which has a Longer Battery Life D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 has a longer battery life than the D5100 although both cameras are fitted with the EN-EL14 Lithium-Ion battery.
The D3300 can capture 700 shots after it is fully charged thanks to the 1500mAH battery capacity. While the D5100 has a battery capacity of 1030mAH and can only make 660 shots after it is fully charged.
The battery energy storage capacities of both cameras are different which would account for the difference in battery life.
Watch the next video on the review of the Nikon D5100’s battery pack and also how to insert the battery.
Which has a Higher Color Depth D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 has a higher color depth than the D5100. The Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 have 24.3 bits and 23.5 bits of color depth respectively.
The measurement of a sensor’s ability to produce distinct and detailed colors is referred to as color depth. This sensor measurement is measured in bits.
A camera that has a higher color depth will produce images that have rich colors than a camera with lower color depth. Due to its important role in portrait photography, it is also referred to as the DXO portrait.
Which has a Better Low Light ISO D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 has a better low-light ISO than the D5100. The Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100 have a low-light value of 1385 and 1183 respectively.
The low-light ISO is another sensor measurement that deals with the sensor’s sensitivity in low-light conditions. A better low-light ISO makes the camera capable of capturing quality images in low light. It also means less noise and grain is produced in such pictures.
Besides, the low light ISO aids a camera in capturing better images during indoor as well as sports events. The low light ISO is also known as DXO sports.
Which has an Improved Image Processor D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 has an improved image processor than the D5100.
The image processor used by a camera is determined by how new a camera is. Newer processors are used in newer cameras.
Therefore, the Nikon D3300 sports the newer EXPEED 4 image processor while the Nikon D5100 is fitted with the EXPEED 2.
The D3300 benefits from the advantages of this new processor in terms of better color accuracy, faster processing speed, and noise reduction.
Which has a Faster Startup Time D3300 or D5100?
The D3300 has a faster startup time than the D5100. It has astartup time of 0.4 seconds while the D5100 has a startup time of 0.5 seconds.
This difference might not be noticed in real-life occurrences.
Startup time deals with the interval between when you press your power button and when it is fully functional.
A fast startup is important especially when you need to capture a shot that can be missed. Wildlife photographers understand this better than anyone else.
Nikon D5100 Unique Pros – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
Which has a Larger Sensor D5100 or D3300?
The D5100 has a larger sensor than the D3300.
When we compare the sensors sizes of the Nikon D3300 and the Nikon D5100, we discover that the latter is larger. The D3300 and the D5100 have a sensor size dimension of 23.6 x 15.7mm and 23.5 x 15.6mm respectively.
The difference is negligible which is why both sensors possess the same crop factor of 1.5x and a 3:2 native aspect ratio.
So far we’ve discussed at different points how important the sensor is. One important aspect of the sensor that also affects its efficiency is the size.
A larger sensor is bound to detect more details than a smaller one. It also affects the dynamic range, low light ISO, color depth, depth of field control and individual pixels.
Which has a Wider Dynamic Range D5100 or D3300?
The D5100 has a wider dynamic range than the D3300. The Nikon D5100 has a dynamic range of 13.6EV while the D3300 has a value of 12.8EV.
Out of the three major DXO sensor measurements of these cameras, the Nikon D5100 has the advantage of the dynamic range only.
The dynamic range (also known as the DXO landscape) determines the details that can be captured in the lightest and darkest portions in an image.
Which has a Larger Sensor Pixel Area D5100 or D3300?
The Nikon D5100 sensor pixel area is 50% larger than the Nikon D3300. The D5100 and the D3300 have a sensor pixel area of 23.04µm2 and 15.28µm2 correspondingly.
Unique Cons – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
Nikon D3300 Unique Cons – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
i. No articulating screen.
ii. No time-lapse recording.
Nikon D5100 Unique Cons – Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5100
i. No panorama
ii. Lacks built-in tutorial guide
Common Pros
| Nikon D3300 | Nikon D5100 | |
| RAW Support | The Nikon D3300 supports the RAW format which is commendable for such an amateur camera. In other words, the D3300 can shoot images in RAW format. RAW pictures are of higher quality than JPEG pictures. They can also be easily edited than JPEG. The only issue is that they are larger and require more storage space than the JPEG pictures. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
Common Cons
| Nikon D3300 | Nikon D5100 | |
| No Built-in Image Stabilization | The Nikon D3300 lacks a built-in image stabilization feature. This feature reduces the occurrence of a blurred image when the camera or subject shakes. However, this can still be remedied if one gets any of the 88 optical stabilization lenses that can be used with the D3300. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Environmental Sealing | The environmental sealing feature of a camera protects it from weather and environmental interference. The Nikon D3300 lacks the environmental sealing feature. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Fine Tune Option | The AF Micro Adjustment allows one to adjust and fine-tune a camera’s autofocus. The Nikon D3300 cannot perform this function. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Built-in WiFi | The built-in WiFi allows for easier and faster connectivity. This feature is absent in the Nikon D3300. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Built-in GPS | Another absent feature that supports the fact that the Nikon D3300 is not a connectivity camera is the built-in GPS. This feature allows one to geotag his or her pictures. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Single Storage Card Slot | The Nikon D3300 stores its captured images in an SD, SDHC or SDXC card. The storage card used is housed in a single storage card slot. A dual-slot would have allowed for more images as well as storage flexibility. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Touch Screen | The Nikon D3300 does not possess the touchscreen feature. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
Check out these other interesting comparison articles below:
Nikon D5200 vs D5000 – Extensive Comparison
Nikon D5100 vs D3000 – Which is Better For You?
Nikon D5100 vs Canon T3i – Which Should You Go For?
Nikon D5100 vs Canon 1100D – Which Should You Choose?
Nikon D40 vs D3300 – In-depth Comparison
Nikon D3300 vs D5000 – Which is Better For You?
General Feeling among Users
| Nikon D3300 | Nikon D5100 |
| The solid design and body build of the Nikon D3300 were applauded by many users. There was a little grievance concerning the plastic feel of the camera but it wasn’t much of a big deal. | The Nikon D5300 was praised for its build and handling. Users said that the camera offered comfort to the hands as they went about on their photography adventures. |
| The Nikon D3300 was lauded concerning its convenience and easy to use approach. One major feature that thrilled beginners was the built-in guide mode. This gave beginners a quick grasp of how the camera works and certain photography concepts and functions. | Another aspect that garnered people’s affections concerning the Nikon D5100 was its convenient usage. |
| The lightweight of the Nikon D3300 was truly appreciated by a good number of users. | Although the Nikon D5100 is somewhat heavier than the D3300, users still considered it lightweight. |
| The lack of an articulating screen was the major complaint the Nikon D3300 received from its users. Some folks thought the Nikon Company would upgrade on the Nikon D3200 which lacked this feature. | The articulating screen is the most talked about and appreciated feature of the Nikon D5100. Users were simply thrilled with this feature. Vloggers registered their love for this camera because of this feature. |
| Beginner photographers were the group who were pleased with the camera’s video performance. Enthusiast and professional photographers did not share the same sentiment. | The Nikon D5100 is capable of shooting videos which is a plus. However, some users complained about noise within the camera during video shooting. |
| The Nikon D3300 is capable of capturing 700 shots after it is fully charged. Certain users especially beginners were satisfied with this battery. A greater number, however, was unhappy with this battery’s performance level. | 660 shots battery life was not the best offer from the Nikon Company and the D5100 on the part of many users. They felt it was a major let down. |
| The 5fps continuous shooting speed of the Nikon D3300 was well received. This is majorly because it is an entry-level camera and even does better than cameras are placed higher. | The feeling towards the continuous shooting speed of the Nikon D5100 on the part of many users was that of indifference. This is easily attributed to the fact that it is an amateur camera and not much was expected concerning it in this regard. |
| The image quality of the Nikon D3300 was highly commended by all the users of this camera. In this regard, they gave a thumbs-up to the camera’s manufacturers: Nikon. | The Nikon D5100 has a commendable image quality but the users felt it could have been better. |
| The creative filters found in the Nikon D3300 was a major win and favorite among its users. |
Nikon D3300 vs D5100 – FAQs
Is Nikon D3300 good for photography?
The Nikon D3300 is good for photography. Beginner and enthusiast photographers will benefit a lot from this camera.
The strongest point of the D3300 is its picture quality. It is fitted with a 24-megapixel sensor with no anti-aliasing filter. This amateur camera delivers stunning images that rival certain semi-pro DLSRs.
The Nikon D3300 is an improvement on its predecessor the D3200. This improvement is seen in its less noisy JPEGs at most ISO range lower than 6400. It even captures amazing video in low light conditions.
Which lens is best for Nikon D3300?
Here are 5 best lenses for the Nikon D3300:
i. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G
Advantages: Clear images, lightweight, rear focusing, and great in low light.
Disadvantages: Fixed focal length and no vibration reduction.
ii. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED
Advantages: Compactness, stunning image quality, ultra-wide, and versatile.
Disadvantages: Cost, defective lens hood, and restrictive range.
iii. Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G
Highlights: Rounded diaphragm, Ultra-fast F1.4, Super Integrated Coating, and SWM.
Disadvantages: Cost, slow autofocus in low light, and plastic feel.
iv. Sigma F1.8 Art 18-35mm DC HSM
Advantages: Vibration compensation, lightweight, moisture resistance, and sharpness.
Disadvantages: High price, autofocus issue, and build quality.
v. Tamron AF F/2.8 SP 90MM DI MACRO 1:1 VC USD
Advantages: Sharpness, solid build, fast autofocus, and versatility.
Disadvantages: Lens hood, no vibration reduction, weight, and loud HSM.
How long can a Nikon D3300 record video?
Nikon D3300 can record video up to a maximum of 30 minutes. This, however, depends on the video frame size or frame rate that you choose to shoot video in.
You can record 10 minutes of video on the D3300 when you choose to shoot in 1080p at 60 fps. To record up to 20 minutes, you will have to choose 720p video at either 30 fps or 24 fps. 424p will capture video up to 30 minutes on the Nikon D3300.
How do you blur the background on a Nikon D3300?
You can blur the background on a Nikon D3300 following this process:
i. Set the lens (preferably a zoom lens) to 35mm focal length.
ii. Then control the depth field using Aperture priority. With f5.6 aperture or lower, you can produce a shallow depth of field. Aperture is set by turning the control dial at the rear.
iii. Doing this will also blur out your background in the process.
Blur background is useful when taking portrait shots. It enhances the face of the subject.
Is Nikon D3300 good for Youtube?
The Nikon D3300 is great for still images, but it is not good for Youtube. The D3300’s autofocus subject tracking for video isn’t great.
Therefore, you won’t be able to move freely when recording a video. It’s either you sit still or have someone man the camera.
And you cannot change the Aperture while shooting. You have to stop recording, change, then continue recording.
The D3300 also makes noises when focusing. And because the autofocusing is really slow, it can interfere with the professionalism of your Youtube video.
Conclusion
| Nikon D3300 | Nikon D5100 |
| The Nikon D3300 makes up for the absence of some screen features with its impeccable image quality delivery. Its built-in guide also makes this camera beginner-friendly. | The Nikon D5100 surely sports amazing features and is a capable amateur camera. Its image quality is also top-notch for a camera in its category and level. |
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