Nikon D5100
Score: 63/100
Nikon D5300
Score: 73/100Rankings
The Nikon D5300 is a mid-range DX-format DSLR featuring a 24.2 MP sensor, built-in Wi-Fi/GPS and a vari-angle 3.2" LCD. Its bulkier body, modest viewfinder and limited RAW buffer keep it from being a top-tier enthusiast tool. It suits photographers who want high image quality and connectivity without moving to mirrorless.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
16.2 MP | 24.2 MPbest | |
25,600best | 25,600best | |
4 fps | 5 fpsbest | |
11 | 39best | |
660 shotsbest | 600 shots | |
95 %best | 95 %best | |
| ↓ lower better | 560 g | 480 gbest |
3 in | 3.2 inbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Sensor(1) | ||
Effective Megapixels (MP) | 16.2 MP | 24.2 MP |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Life (shots) (shots) | 660 shots | 600 shots |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 560 g | 480 g |
Performance(2) | ||
Continuous Shooting Speed (fps) | 4 fps | 5 fps |
Autofocus Points | 11 | 39 |
Display(2) | ||
Screen Size (in) | 3.0 in | 3.2 in |
Screen Resolution (pixels) | 921000 pixels | 1037000 pixels |
Viewfinder(1) | ||
Viewfinder Magnification (x) | 0.78 x | 0.82 x |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
Professional reviewers consistently commend the D5300 for its sharp 24.2 MP sensor without an OLPF, robust 600-shot battery, and the first-in-class inclusion of Wi-Fi and GPS in a Nikon DSLR. DPReview and Photography Blog also appreciate the vari-angle LCD and solid build, while Thom Hogan points out the advantage of the Sony IMX193AQK sensor and carbon-fiber-reinforced body. Overall, experts view it as a well-rounded mid-range option that bridges entry-level ease of use with enthusiast-level features.
Everyday users echo the professional praise, frequently mentioning the long battery life, sharp image quality, and convenient wireless connectivity. Common criticisms revolve around the camera's relatively large size, lack of weather sealing, and the limited RAW buffer depth.
“Sharp images, easy handling for beginners, flip-out screen for selfies/video, and good low-light performance up to ISO 6400”
“Plastic build feels cheap and the autofocus is slow in live view”
