A camera is a worthy investment that allows you to capture moments that can be relived after several years. DSLR cameras these days offer excellent imaging that can be used by anyone. In this article, we compare the Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58.
Because of their different camera categories, these cameras are bound to have certain differences. Nevertheless, they are still similar in some ways.
Therefore, we reveal these similarities and differences in detail. We even discuss which kind of photography these cameras will be most suitable for. All these and more are found in this in-depth comparison.
Comparison Overview – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
Comparing the size and weight of these cameras, you’ll discover the Nikon D3300 to be smaller and lighter than the Sony A58. The D3300’s body is made from a carbon-fiber-reinforced-polymer which is partly responsible for its lightweight. This makes it a portable camera that can be carried more conveniently.
While the D3300 can be obtained in black, grey or red body color, the A58 can be gotten in black color. Therefore, you are offered options to pick from with the Nikon camera.
Quality imaging is the major reason many choose a camera. When we compare these cameras, the Nikon D3300 does better in the imaging department. It will produce well-detailed images than the Sony A58.
The D3300 might have a larger screen and a better screen resolution, but the screen of the A58 is articulating. This gives the Sony camera the advantage when capturing difficult angles.
A standout feature that the Sony A58 has which the Nikon D3300 lacks is the built-in image stabilization. This feature ensures the camera can produce images that are free from blur.
Regarding wireless connectivity, these cameras fall short in this area. None of them have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS.
Price/Value Ratio – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
Which camera offers more value for money?
The D3300 offers more value for money than the A58 although the Sony A58 offers more unique features. These features include an anti-aliasing filter, articulating screen, built-in image stabilization, focus peaking, AE bracketing, and HDR.
The Nikon D3300, however, is cheaper and has a better performance level in many areas. When both cameras are compared, the D3300 has an advantage ratio of 165 over the A58.
Most of the Sony A58’s unique features that are missing in the Nikon D3300 can be done without.
Comparison Table – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
| Nikon D3300 | Sony A58 | |
| Announcement Date | 7th January 2014 | February 2013 |
| Size Dimensions | 124 x 98 x 76mm | 129 x 95 x 78mm |
| Weight | 430g | 492g |
| Sensor Size | 23.5 x 15.6mm | 23.2 x 15.4mm |
| Sensor Resolution | 24 .2 megapixels | 20.1 megapixels |
| ISO | 100 – 12800 (expanded 100 – 25600) | 100 – 16000 (expanded 100 – 25600) |
| Built-in Image Stabilization | No | Yes |
| Screen Size | 3 inches | 2.7 inches screen |
| Screen Resolution | 921,000 dots | 460,000 dots |
| Articulating | Fixed | Tilting |
| Viewfinder | Optical pentamirror viewfinder | 1440k dot electronic viewfinder |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 5 fps | 8 fps |
| Anti-Aliasing Filter | No | Yes |
| Battery Life | 700 shots | 690 shots |
| Click Here To Get The Nikon D3300 Now! | Click Here To Get The Sony A58 Now! |
What Situation is Each Best For? – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
| Nikon D3300 | Sony A58 |
| Portrait photographers cherish detailed images a lot. This is why they go for cameras that can deliver such high-quality detail. The cameras in this article produce excellent detailed imaging, yet the Nikon D3300 does better. I ts higher sensor resolution and larger sensor ensure this. Hence, it is better at capturing portrait pictures. | Street photographers deal with difficult angles in their line of work. With a fixed screen, capturing such angles becomes more difficult. However, a camera like the Sony A58 with its articulating screen can conveniently capture such. Hence, the A58 is recommended for street photography than the D3300. |
| Daily photography requires shooting for extended periods as well as moving from place to place. Therefore, a daily photographer camera apart from providing excellent imaging must be lightweight and in some cases small. Of the two cameras in comparison, the D3300 is lighter and smaller. This makes it suitable for this kind of photography. | Sports photography requires a camera that can capture fast-moving subjects. When we compare both cameras in this article, we discover the Sony A58 has the edge as being faster. It has a faster continuous shooting speed and more focus points. Also, its image stabilization feature ensures that the images aren’t blurred despite the subjects’ motion. |
| Landscape photography thrives on detailed images almost as much as portrait photography. Therefore, the Nikon D3300 has the edge once more in this regard. | The A58 doesn’t perform as well as the D3300. |
Watch the Nikon D3300 user’s guide in the video below.
Common Features – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
In this section, we discuss the features found in the Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58 as we reveal their similarities.
The D3300 and the A58 have the following similarities:
i. Sensor Format and Type
ii. Video Resolution
iii. Live View
iv. Built-in Flash
v. Hot Shoe (External Flash Shoe)
vi. Microphone Port
vii. HDMI Port
viii. USB Port
ix. Storage
x. Bulb Shutter
Sensor Format and Type
These cameras make use of the same APS-C CMOS sensor. Interestingly, these sensors are manufactured by Sony.
The sensor is an integral part of a camera that cannot be done without. It determines to a large extent the overall quality of the image produced.
Since light is a requirement for the production of clear quality images, the sensor ensures adequate light is captured into the camera.
The sensor format and type influences the efficiency of the sensor. The sensor format deals with the sensor’s size category. The sensor type, on the other hand, deals with the technology employed in making the sensor.
The APS-C format (aka DX-format in Nikon circles) is regarded as medium-sized when compared to other sensor formats. This makes it suitable for these cameras.
The CMOS sensor type offers the advantages of battery conservation and a less expensive price. Unlike the CCD sensor, the CMOS sensor does not consume battery power. Besides, it is inexpensive to manufacture which reflects in the camera’s overall price.
Video Resolution
The Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58 can shoot videos. They even do so at the same full HD video resolution of 1920 x 1080.
Live View
The screens of these cameras can be used as a live viewfinder during image capture. The live view feature found in both cameras is responsible for this.
In this mode, the focus points are displayed on the screen. This allows the user to edit them as they please to enhance the image quality.
| Click Here To Get The Nikon D3300 Now! | Click Here To Get The Sony A58 Now! |
Built-in Flash
Some situations require capturing an image in low light conditions. Since light is necessary for clear quality image production, such images will be poor in quality.
A built-in flash is a feature that enables a camera to capture clear quality images in such low light conditions. It does this by illuminating the subject and its surroundings.
This feature is handy as it can be used in emergencies. It also reduces the need for the constant use of an external flash.
The Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58 have this feature.
Hot Shoe (External Flash Shoe)
Although the built-in flash helps out in low light conditions, an external flash will do better. This is because it has more flash power and it can be used in more versatile positions, unlike the fixed built-in flash.
However, you cannot make use of this accessory if your camera lacks a hot shoe feature.
The hot shoe is a platform found on top of a camera that allows the attachment of certain accessories including the external flash. It is in most cases made from metal.
Microphone Port
These cameras record audio thanks to their built-in microphones. These microphones, however, do not produce quality audio.
Therefore, certain cameras including the ones in this article are fitted with a microphone port. This feature allows you to connect an external microphone to these cameras.
An external microphone like the Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone will produce better audio quality during video recording.
HDMI Port
The D3300 and the A58 are fitted with a mini HDMI port. This port allows these cameras to be connected to a larger screen via an HDMI.
When the connection is made, all that is displayed on these cameras’ screens are displayed on the larger screen.
USB Port
The USB port is used to connect a camera to a device such as a personal computer. With the use of a USB cable, the transfer of files can be made from the device to the camera and vice versa.
The cameras in this article are fitted with a USB 2.0 port.
Storage
The Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58 make use of a single card slot storage for storage purposes. This single card slot houses memory cards where captured images are stored.
While the Nikon camera makes use of SDXC cards, the Sony camera makes use of SDXC or memory stick pro duo cards.
Some cameras make use of dual card slots instead of one. Such cameras have more storage space and options. In an event where one slot is damaged, the other one can be used. The cameras in this comparison don’t have such luxury.
Bulb Shutter
The bulb shutter found in these cameras manually holds the shutter open for better and long exposures. This aids in enhancing the quality of the image captured.
Unique Features – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
This section discusses the features that are found in the Nikon D3300 and not in the Sony A58, and vice versa. We reveal the differences between both cameras here.
Nikon D3300 Unique Features
The following are unique features found in the D3300 that are missing in the A58:
i. UHS Card Support
ii. Nikon F Lens Mount
iii. EXPEED 4 Image Processor
UHS Card Support
While both cameras make use of single card slot storage, the Nikon D3300 supports the use of UHS cards (UHS-I in this case). This card allows this camera to read, write, and transfer files at ultra-high speeds of up to 104MB/s.
| Click Here To Get The Nikon D3300 Now! | Click Here To Get The Sony A58 Now! |
Nikon F Lens Mount
The lens mount is a feature that is used to hold the lens in place and attach it to the camera’s body. Therefore, it is found between the lens used and the camera’s body.
The number and type of lenses a camera can make use of are determined by the lens mount.
The Nikon D3300 is fitted with the Nikon F lens mount that is exclusively used by Nikon cameras.
EXPEED 4 Image Processor
The EXPEED 4 image processor runs the D3300. The EXPEED image processor series is exclusive to Nikon cameras.
The image processor is responsible for running the camera. Hence, it controls the camera’s processing speed, image processing, video processing, battery consumption, autofocusing, etc.
- 24.2 Megapixels CMOS DX format sensor
- 5 FPS continuous shooting
- 11 AutoFocus points
- 100-12800 ISO (can be expanded to 25600)
- 1080 HD video (MOV/MPEG 4/H.264)
- 3 inch LCD screen; 921,000 dots
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Sony A58 Unique Features
The following are unique features found in the A58 that are missing in the D3300:
i. Anti-Aliasing Filter
ii. Articulating Screen
iii. Built-in Image Stabilization
iv. Focus Peaking
v. AE Bracketing
vi. HDR
vii. Sony/Minolta Alpha Lens Mount
Watch this Sony A58 review before reading further.
Anti-Aliasing Filter
The anti-aliasing filter also called the low pass filter is found before the sensor in the camera. This filter reduces the occurrence of moiré in captured images.
Moiré is the repetitive pattern of lines and spots found on captured images. Cameras such as the Sony A58 are less susceptible to moiré.
The disadvantage of this feature is that it reduces the sharpness and detail of the captured image. Hence, certain cameras like the Nikon D3300 are not fitted with this feature to ensure their images are well detailed and sharp.
Articulating Screen
An articulating screen is a display screen that can be tilted, turned, swiveled or rotated. In the case of the A58, this camera’s screen can be tilted.
This screen aids the Sony A58 in capturing difficult angles that one using a fixed screen will find difficult. Furthermore, it enhances viewing options, especially when watching movies.
Built-in Image Stabilization
Sometimes you discover that a captured image is blurred. There are two reasons for such occurrences.
Blur occurs when the photographer shakes during image capture. Secondly, blur occurs when the subject shakes or changes position quickly. Because of the second reason, you discover that certain cameras find it difficult to precisely capture subjects in motion.
This happens more often with cameras that have a slow shutter speed. Unfortunately, the cameras in this article fall into this category.
Nevertheless, the A58 has the sensor-shift image stabilization feature. This feature ensures that all the lenses the camera will use are stabilized. This helps to reduce shakes during image capture. It also helps in capturing quick-moving subjects as well.
Cameras like the Nikon D3300 that lack this feature will have to rely on optical stabilization lenses for this function.
Focus Peaking
The focus peaking function allows the Sony A58 to highlight the subject and points in focus.
AE Bracketing
There are tough lighting conditions that make shooting somewhat difficult. The AE (Auto Exposure) bracketing feature helps out in such situations.
With this feature, the A58 can automatically adjust its settings to suit the current lighting condition of an environment.
Furthermore, the AE bracketing is helpful when shooting in HDR.
HDR
The HDR mode is used when the photographer is not sure of the right exposure to use. In this mode, instead of a single captured image, three images are captured at different exposures. These images are then combined to produce the best exposure of that image.
The Sony A58 has the HDR mode while the D3300 does not.
| Click Here To Get The Nikon D3300 Now! | Click Here To Get The Sony A58 Now! |
Sony/Minolta Alpha Lens Mount
The lens mount which the A58 makes use of is the Sony/Minolta Alpha lens mount. We discuss how many lenses this mount supports later on.
Unique Pros – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
There are certain features that these cameras possess. However, the ones discussed in this section perform at different levels and capacities in both cameras.
Therefore, this section discusses the advantages these cameras have over each other.
Nikon D3300 Unique Pros
Which has a Higher Sensor Resolution D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a higher sensor resolution than the A58. The Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58 have a sensor resolution of 24.2 megapixels and 20.1 megapixels respectively. Hence, the D3300 has a higher resolution of 4.1 (20%) megapixels. This means it will produce better-detailed images.
Sensor resolution sometimes called megapixels is the ability of the sensor to detect and produce detailed imaging. The higher the sensor resolution, the better equipped a camera is in producing well-detailed images.
The difference in the sensor resolutions of these cameras is responsible for the difference in their pixel pitch.
The Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58 have a pixel pitch of 3.91µm and 4.31µm respectively.
Which has a Larger Sensor D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a slightly larger sensor than the A58. The Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58 have a sensor size of 23.5 x 15.6mm and 23.2 x 15.4mm respectively. The difference is a negligible 0.3 x 0.2mm which won’t make any difference in real-life image production.
Due to this negligible difference, the format factor and native aspect ratio of these cameras are the same at 1.5 and 3:2 correspondingly.
A large sensor can capture more light into the camera thereby improving the image quality.
Furthermore, a larger sensor improves the camera’s color depth, dynamic range, and low light ISO. The photographer can easily isolate a subject from its background as a larger sensor provides a better depth of field control.
Which has a Better Sensor Performance D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a better sensor performance than the A58 despite the slight difference in their sensor sizes. The test conducted by the DXO mark reveals the Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58 to have a sensor performance of 82 and 74 respectively.
This overall score is an aggregate of the test results of these cameras’ color depth, dynamic range, and low light ISO.
The color depth is a measure of the sensor’s sensitivity in detecting and producing distinct colors.
The color depth scores for the D3300 and the A58 are 24.3 bits and 23.3 bits respectively. The D3300 has the advantage of just 1.0 bits.
The dynamic range is a measure of the sensor’s sensitivity in detecting detail in the lightest and darkest points in a frame.
The Nikon D3300 has a 12.8 EV dynamic range, while the Sony A58 has 12.5 EV. Again, the D3300 has a slight edge of 0.3 EV.
The low light ISO is a measure of the sensor’s sensitivity in low light conditions.
The Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58 have a low light ISO of 1385 and 753 respectively. The D3300 has a 0.9 stops advantage here as well.
All these advantages are responsible for the Nikon D3300’s better sensor performance.
| Click Here To Get The Nikon D3300 Now! | Click Here To Get The Sony A58 Now! |
Which has a Larger Screen D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a larger screen than the A58. It has a screen size of 3 inches compared to the 2.7 inches screen the Sony A58 sports. The 0.3-inch additional screen area is enough for some to pick the Nikon camera over the Sony camera.
The larger the display screen, the easier viewing becomes. This why many smartphone screens are getting bigger to provide a larger viewing area. We also love the same when it comes to cameras, which is why larger screen cameras are more preferred.
Which has a Higher Screen Resolution D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a higher screen resolution than the A58. It has a screen resolution of 921,000 dots, while the Sony A58 has 460,000 dots screen resolution.
A high screen resolution will display images that are well-detailed, sharp, and rich in color. The screen resolution is measured in dots.
Which has a Faster Video Frame Rate D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a faster video frame rate than the A58 even though both cameras shoot at the same video resolution. The Nikon D3300 records videos at 1080/60p, while the Sony A58 does the same at 1080/60i.
Learn how to shoot videos on the Nikon D3300 in the next video.
Which has a Better Viewfinder Type D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a better viewfinder type than the A58. It is fitted with an optical pentamirror viewfinder. The Sony A58, on the other hand, is fitted with a 1440k dot electronic viewfinder.
We tabulate the differences between these viewfinders below:
| Optical pentamirror viewfinder | Electronic 1440k dot viewfinder |
| It produces better-detailed images. | The images produced aren’t so detailed. |
| It saves battery. | For it to function, it consumes battery power. |
| There is no lag during framing | It experiences some sort of lag-viewing |
| It does not display shooting information | Shooting information is displayed on the viewfinder |
Taking the above into account shows the viewfinder in the D3300 to offer more advantages; which makes it better.
The viewfinder is the part of the camera used for framing and controlling shots. It ensures the subject is captured within the frame and not out of it.
Which has a Longer Battery Life D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a longer battery life than the A58. It is fitted with a 1500mAh EN-EL14a battery that can capture 700 shots after a full charge. The Sony A58, on the other hand, uses the 1600mAh NP-FM500H power pack that captures 690 shots after being fully charged.
The difference is just 10 shots between both cameras. However, having an additional 10 shots can make a difference while capturing images.
How long a battery can last after being fully charged is a big deal when choosing a camera. Naturally, everyone will opt for a camera that lasts for a long period.
Which has a Larger JPEG Buffer D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a larger JPEG buffer than the A58. It has 100 shots buffer capacity, while the A58 has a buffer of just 8 shots; which is quite embarrassing.
Hence, if you will be shooting a lot in burst mode, the Nikon D3300 will serve you way better.
Capturing several images non-stop for a while is possible when in burst mode aka continuous shooting.
The number of shots you can capture while in this mode is dependent on your camera’s buffer. The buffer is temporary storage where images captured in burst mode are kept before being moved to the main storage. You can keep shooting in burst mode provided your buffer isn’t filled up.
| Click Here To Get The Nikon D3300 Now! | Click Here To Get The Sony A58 Now! |
Which has a Longer Flash Coverage D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a longer flash coverage than the A58. The Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58, when used at ISO 100, have a flash range of 12.0m and 10.0m respectively. This means the Nikon camera’s flash will cover 2m longer than the Sony camera.
Which has More Available Lenses D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has more available lenses than the A58. It has 304 native lenses and 104 optical stabilization lenses at its disposal. The Sony A58, on the other hand, has 143 native lenses available for use. It does not have optical stabilization lenses because it has built-in image stabilization.
Since both cameras make use of different lens mounts, the types and number of lenses that will be available for these cameras are also different.
The table below lists the types and number of lenses available to both cameras.
| Lens Type | Number of Nikon D3300 Lenses | Number of Sony A58 Lenses |
| Standard Prime | 20 | 9 |
| Standard Zoom | 33 | 20 |
| Wide-angle Prime | 47 | 18 |
| Wide-angle Zoom | 33 | 11 |
| Telephoto Prime | 43 | 12 |
| Telephoto Zoom | 53 | 26 |
| Super Zoom | 30 | 19 |
| Macro Prime | 25 | 12 |
| Wide-angle Fisheye Prime | 8 | 4 |
| Telephoto Mirror Prime | 1 | 2 |
| Perspective Mirror Prime | 11 | 10 |
| TOTAL | 304 | 143 |
Allow us to recommend this telephoto lens for the Sony A58: Sony 55-200mm f/4-5.6 SAM DT Telephoto Zoom Lens.
Which has a Faster Startup D3300 or A58?
The D3300 has a faster startup time than the A58. The Nikon D3300 and Sony A58 have a startup delay of 0.40 seconds and 1.9 seconds respectively. Therefore, when both cameras are turned on at the same time, the D3300 will be operational in less time than the A58.
Which is Smaller D33000 or A58?
The D3300 is smaller than the A58. The Nikon D3300 and the Sony A58 have a body size of 124 x 98 x 76mm vs 129 and 95 x 78mm correspondingly. This shows that the D3300 is 5mm narrower, 2mm thinner, but 3mm taller.
Smaller cameras are advantageous because they can be carried about conveniently, and can be packed easily.
Which is Lighter D3300 or A58?
The D3300 is lighter than the A58. Apart from being it is also 62g (13%) lighter than the Sony A58. The Nikon D3300 weighs 430g, while the A58 weighs 492g. This adds to the D3300’s overall portability and convenient use.
Which is Newer D3300 or A58?
The Nikon D3300 is 11 months newer than the A58.
This is important for many who prefer newer cameras to older ones. Besides, newer cameras benefit from technological advancements that were not available for older cameras.
Which is Cheaper D3300 or A58?
The D3300 is 17% cheaper than the A58 when we compare their launch prices. However, the A58 is the more discounted camera since it has been in the market for a longer period.
The price of a camera can be said to be the ultimate factor that decides if one purchases a camera or not.
Sony A58 Unique Pros
Which has a Higher Maximum ISO A58 or D3300?
The A58 has higher a higher maximum ISO than the D3300. It has an ISO range of 100 – 16000, while the Nikon D3200 has an ISO range of 100 – 12800. This means the A58 has a 25% higher maximum ISO.
Both cameras, however, can be expanded to a maximum ISO of 25600.
The ISO refers to how sensitive a sensor is in making use of available light in the camera’s environment.
A sensitive sensor will produce a brighter image that has less grain and noise. Such sensors are better equipped to shoot in low light conditions.
| Click Here To Get The Nikon D3300 Now! | Click Here To Get The Sony A58 Now! |
Which has a Faster Continuous Shooting Speed A58 or D3300?
The A58 has a faster continuous shooting speed than the D3300. It is 3 fps faster with its 8 fps continuous shooting speed, while the Nikon D3300 has a speed of 5 fps.
The continuous shooting speed apart from the buffer makes shooting in burst mode pleasurable. It is the number of images a camera can capture in one second.
Which has More Focus Points A58 or D3300?
The A58 has more focus points than the D3300. It has 15 focus points, while the Nikon D3300 has 11. It also has 3 cross-type focus points, while the D3300 has just 1.
Focus points are points within a frame where the user can place additional focus on. The detail and sharpness of these points are better than other points within the frame.
The higher the number of focus points, the better detailed the image will be. Besides, more focus points enhance the camera’s autofocus performance.
Which has a Better Viewfinder Coverage and Magnification A58 or D3300?
The A58 has a better viewfinder coverage and magnification than the D3300. It has 100% viewfinder coverage and 0.65x viewfinder magnification. On the other hand, the Nikon D3300 has a viewfinder coverage of 95% and magnification of 0.57x.
The above reveals the A58’s viewfinder has better coverage and magnification.
Which has More Video Formats A58 or D3300?
The Sony A58 has more video formats than the Nikon D3300. It records video in MPEG-4, AVCHID, and H.264. While the D3300 can record video in MPEG-4 and H.264 video formats only.
Check out the Sony A58 video and photo test below.
Which has Less Shutter Lag A58 or D3300?
The A58 has less shutter lag than D3300. The Sony A58 and the Nikon D3300 have a shutter lag of 0.13 seconds and 0.26 seconds respectively.
The shutter lag is the period between when the shutter button is pressed to capture an image and when it is saved. During this period, the camera will be inactive as it saves the image.
Unique Cons – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
Nikon D3300 Unique Cons
i. It is susceptible to moiré.
ii. Lacks an articulating screen.
iii. Blurred images are bound to occur often.
iv. It cannot highlight what’s in focus.
v. It is not equipped to shoot in tough lighting conditions.
Sony A58 Unique Cons
i. It does not support UHS cards.
Common Pros – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
| Nikon D3300 | Sony A58 | |
| Supports RAW Format | An image can be captured in JPEG format or RAW format. The latter produces better image quality than the former. Furthermore, it can be easily edited as well. Due to its better image quality, RAW images are larger and take up more storage space. Not all cameras support the RAW formats, but the Nikon D3300 does. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Has Face Detection Focus | The face detection focus automatically detects the human faces within a frame and enhances the focus. The result is a well-detailed and expressive face. This is why portrait photographers benefit from this feature. The D3300 is fitted with this feature. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Uses Phase Detection Autofocus System | The Nikon D3300 makes use of the phase-detection autofocus system. The alternative is the contrast-detection autofocus system. The phase-detection AF system is capable of acquiring faster and more precise autofocus. Besides, it can perform continuous autofocus and subject tracking that allows continuous autofocusing on subjects. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Has Panorama | The D3300 can create a panoramic photo by stitching several pictures together thanks to the panorama feature. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Click Here To Get The Nikon D3300 Now! | Click Here To Get The Sony A58 Now! |
Common Cons – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
| Nikon D3300 | Sony A58 | |
| No Built-in Environmental Sealing | The environmental sealing aka weather sealing enables a camera to shoot in tough environmental and weather conditions. Hence, cameras with these features are protected from these environmental and weather factors. The Nikon D3300 does not have this feature. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Lacks AF Micro Adjustment | With the AF micro-adjustment feature, a camera can fine-tune its autofocus. This function enhances the image quality and makes it better-detailed. The D3300 cannot perform autofocus fine-tuning. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Slow Shutter Speed | The shutter speed refers to how fast a camera can capture an image. Cameras with a fast shutter speed can capture fast-moving subjects better than cameras with slow shutter speed. The Nikon D3300 has a shutter speed of 1/4000s which is regarded as slow. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Built-in Wi-Fi | The D3300 does not have a built-in Wi-Fi feature. This feature would have allowed this camera to wirelessly connect to other devices. This wireless connection lets cameras with these feature transfer files from the camera to the connected device and vice versa. Furthermore, you can directly share your images directly to social media platforms. When connected to a Wi-Fi printer, you can print out images without the use of cables. These and many more are the functions of the Wi-Fi feature. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Built-in GPS | The GPS is used to pinpoint the precise location of a device anywhere on the planet. When fitted in cameras, most photographers use it for geotagging functions. Geotagging allows you to tag the location where an image was captured to the captured image. This lets other people know the exact location where a shot was captured. The Nikon D3300 cannot geotag images. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Lacks Built-in Focus Motor | The built-in focus motor feature enables a camera to autofocus with all its available lenses. The D3300, however, lacks this feature. You might as well opt for lenses that are designed with the focus motor feature. This is common with newer lenses. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Touch Screen | The touch screen is a familiar feature thanks to our frequent use of it when operating our smartphones. This feature allows you to operate your camera by interacting with the display screen the same way you use your smartphone. When used in cameras, the touch screen reduces the need for many buttons. The Nikon D3300 does not have the touch screen feature. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Poor Shutter Life Expectancy | Shutter life expectancy refers to how long a camera’s shutter mechanism will last before it becomes faulty. In other words, this is a guarantee of how long your camera is supposed to last. The shutter life is measured based on the number of shots captured by the shutter; which is also called actuations. The Nikon D3300 has a poor shutter life expectancy of just 100,000 actuations. This is considering the number of images some photographers capture in a day. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Lacks NFC | The NFC (Near Field Communication) feature is used to make pairing with supported smartphones simpler. It is usually used in connection with the Wi-Fi feature in cameras. The D3300 lacks the NFC feature. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Built-in Bluetooth | Another connectivity feature which is missing in the Nikon D3300 is the Bluetooth. Some cameras that lack the Wi-Fi compensate with the Bluetooth. This feature allows you to connect wirelessly to other Bluetooth devices to perform several functions. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Lacks On-Sensor Phase Detect | The On-sensor phase-detect feature enhances a camera’s live view and video autofocus performance. The D3300 lacks this feature. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| Top LCD Absent | Some cameras have a small LCD on their top. This screen contains basic control settings and information. One can easily use the top LCD to adjust camera settings without using the main display screen. The Nikon D3300 does not have the top LCD feature. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Headphone Port | The headphone port allows you to connect a headphone to a camera. The headphone is used for monitoring audio during video recording. It can also be used to listen to the audio while watching movies. The D3300 does not have the headphone port. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
| No Slow-Motion Video | The Nikon D3300 can record videos but cannot create slow-motion videos. | Same as Nikon D3300 |
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?
What Users Think About These Cameras – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
| Nikon D3300 | Sony A58 |
| The Nikon D33300 was praised for its excellent imaging by many users. | Many users of the Sony A58 said the camera’s imaging was impressive. |
| Some users complained that the D3300’s autofocus struggled in low light conditions. | The A58 autofocus was said to function well in most conditions. |
| Users who printed images from the Nikon D3300 commended the quality of the printed image. | Same as Nikon D3300. |
| The D3300 has a shallow buffer depth when capturing RAW images. | Some users of the Sony A58 who upgraded from the Sony A57 had some complaints. They complained that the buffer is shallower with a slower burst mode speed than its predecessor. |
| Many users were not pleased with the fact that the Nikon camera lacks a built-in Wi-Fi. | Same displeasure as the Nikon D3300. |
| There were mixed reactions regarding the Nikon D3300’s fixed screen. Some were unhappy, while others were indifferent. | Although the A58’s screen can be tilted, previous users of the A57 were dissatisfied. They felt this was a downgrade compared to the predecessor that was fully articulating. |
| Users had no issue with the optical viewfinder of the D3300. | Not every user of the Sony A58 was pleased with the electronic viewfinder feature; especially those used to optical viewfinders. |
Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58 – FAQs
Which Sony Alpha camera is best?
The following is a list of the best Sony Alpha cameras according to their rank and overall score as tested by DXO mark.
| Rank | Camera Model | Overall Score | Sensor Resolution |
| 1 | Sony A7R III | 100 | 42.4 megapixels |
| 2 | Sony A7R IV | 99 | 61.2 megapixels |
| 3 | Sony A7R II | 98 | 42.4 megapixels |
| 4 | Sony A7 III | 96 | 24.2 megapixels |
| 5 | Sony A7R | 95 | 36 megapixels |
| 6 | Sony a9 II | 93 | 24.2 megapixels |
| 7 | Sony a9 | 92 | 24.2 megapixels |
| 8 | Sony SLT Alpha 99 II | 92 | 42.4 megapixels |
| 9 | Sony A7 | 90 | 24 megapixels |
| 10 | Sony A7 II | 90 | 24.3 megapixels |
What is Sony A mount lenses?
Sony A mount lenses are lenses that can be used with the Sony A-mount on certain Sony camera models. These lenses can be used on Sony cameras that have a mirror or a translucent mirror.
Sony cameras series with the A-mount that supports Sony A-mount lenses include the ILCA-xx, SLT-Axx, and DSLR-Axx.
The Sony A-mount lenses can be used on cameras that use an E-mount as well. However, you will need to make use of a mount adaptor to do so.
What lenses are compatible with the Sony A58?
Standard Zoom lenses
Sony 24-70mm F2.8 ZA SSM
Sony DT 16-50mm F2.8 SSM
Standard Prime lenses
Sony DT 50mm F1.8 SAM
Sony 50mm F1.4
Wide-angle Zoom lenses
Sony 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM
Sony DT 11-18mm F4.5-5.6
Wide-angle Prime lenses
Sony DT 35mm F1.8 SAM
Sony 28mm F2.8
Telephoto lenses
Sony 70-200mm F2.8 G SSM II
Sony 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 G SSM II
Telephoto Prime lenses
Sony 500mm F4 G SSM
Sony 85mm F1.4 ZA CZ
SuperZoom lenses
Sony DT 18-250mm F3.5-6.3
Sony DT 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 SAM
Wideangle Fisheye Prime lens
Sony 16mm F2.8 Fisheye
Macro Prime lenses
Sony DT 30mm F2.8 Macro SAM
Sony 100mm F2.8 Macro
Perspective Control Prime lens
Sony 85mm F2.8 SAM
Telephoto Mirror Prime lens
Sony 500mm F8 Reflex
How do I view images from my Sony A58 on my TV?
The steps below will guide you on how to view images from your Sony A58 on your TV:
i. Turn off your camera.
ii. Turn off your TV.
iii. Get an HDMI cable. It has to be purchased separately.
iv. Connect the larger end of the HDMI cable to your TV’s HDMI connector.
v. Connect the smaller end of the cable to your camera’s HDMI micro jack.
vi. Turn on your TV and change the input to HDMI. Check your TV’s manual to find out how to do this.
vii. Turn on the camera.
viii. Press the playback button.
ix. The images will then appear on your TV.
x. Use the left and right control buttons on your camera to swipe through images.
How to reset the Sony A58 to default settings?
The steps below will show you how to reset the Sony A58 to default settings:
i. Turn on the Sony A58.
ii. Press the menu button.
iii. Select the 3rd wrench icon tab settings.
iv. Select initialize.
v. Select the settings of your choice.
vi. Press ok.
vii. Your camera will then begin to reset. Make sure you don’t turn off the camera in the process.
viii. Once the reset is complete, your settings, and in some cases you installed apps will be uninstalled. You will have to reinstall them again.
Before you even begin the reset process, make sure your camera’s battery is full.
Conclusion – Nikon D3300 vs Sony A58
| Nikon D3300 | Sony A58 |
| The Nikon D3300 is truly an impressive camera that will suit not just amateur photographers, but even enthusiasts as well. It’s quality imaging sure rivals some lower semi-pro cameras. The downside is just the absence of certain features that would have enhanced convenience. | The Sony A58 is a camera that provides excellent imaging. Enthusiasts and even amateur photographers would enjoy using this camera indeed. |
| Click Here To Get The Nikon D3300 Now! | Click Here To Get The Sony A58 Now! |
