Nikon D40x
Score: 57/100
Nikon D5100
Score: 63/100Rankings
The Nikon D5100 is an entry-level DX-format DSLR with a 16.2 MP sensor, vari-angle screen and full-HD video. Its plastic construction, modest burst rate and slower live-view AF limit its suitability for fast action. It is ideal for beginners and vloggers who value a lightweight, flexible shooting experience.
The Nikon D40x is an entry-level APS-C DSLR offering a compact 10.2 MP sensor and solid image quality for beginners. However, it lacks modern features such as video recording, live view, and image stabilization, and its battery life is relatively short. Best suited for hobbyists seeking a lightweight, straightforward DSLR.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
10.2 MP | 16.2 MPbest | |
3,200 | 25,600best | |
3 fps | 4 fpsbest | |
— | 11best | |
— | 660 shotsbest | |
95 %best | 95 %best | |
| ↓ lower better | 522 gbest | 560 g |
2.5 in | 3 inbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Sensor(2) | ||
Effective Megapixels (MP) | 10.2 MP | 16.2 MP |
Maximum ISO | 3200 | 25600 |
Features(1) | ||
Image Stabilization | false | true |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 522 g | 560 g |
Performance(1) | ||
Continuous Shooting Speed (fps) | 3 fps | 4 fps |
Display(2) | ||
Screen Size (in) | 2.5 in | 3.0 in |
Screen Resolution (pixels) | 230000 pixels | 921000 pixels |
Viewfinder(1) | ||
Viewfinder Magnification (x) | 0.8 x | 0.78 x |
Storage(1) | ||
Memory Card Type | SD/SDHC | SD |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praised the D40x for its portable size, solid 10.2 MP image quality, and user-friendly controls, noting the bright LCD and natural color rendering as standout features. However, they also highlighted its dated technology, such as the lack of live view, video, and image stabilization, as well as a modest ISO range and low technical score, positioning it as a solid beginner's DSLR but not competitive with higher-end models.
Everyday users love the camera's lightweight feel, sharp 10 MP photos, and easy-to-use scene modes, finding it a good entry point into the Nikon system. Common frustrations revolve around noisy high-ISO performance, short battery life, the plastic build quality, and the absence of video or live view features.
Professional reviewers consider the D5100 a strong entry-level DSLR, lauding its image quality, flexible LCD and solid video features, while noting its plastic construction, modest burst speed and lack of weather sealing as compromises for its price point.
Users generally praise the camera's sharp image output, lightweight design, and versatile flip-out screen, but many express disappointment with the plasticky feel, sluggish live-view autofocus, and limited video-mode battery life.
“breathtaking picture quality”
“handy size/weight as best-in-class for compactness”
“Sharp images, easy handling for beginners, flip-out screen for selfies/video, and good low-light performance up to ISO 6400”
