Nikon D3100 vs Nikon D5100 vs Nikon D7000

Nikon D3100 vs D5100: Which is Right for You?

Nikon’s new D5100 fills what has been a sizable gap in the current lineup between the D3100 and the spectacularly popular D7000. Though the Nikon D5100’s predecessor (the D5000) has been available, its now antiquated features have generally left it relegated to the “also ran” position. Perhaps more importantly, Nikon shooters had been left to choose between a new but decidedly entry-level D3100 and a semi-pro oriented D7000 . But no longer: the D5100 combines an impressive set of features with a reasonable price, currently $799 or the body, or $893 with a kit lens.

The Specs

A quick comparison of the relevant features of these three cameras is in order before discussing the specifics of the D5100’s new features. To expand the table, select 50 from the drop down box at the top left that currently reads “10”.

Nikon D3100Nikon D5100Nikon D7000
Nikon D5100Nikon D7000
Amazon Price (body only)$626
$799$1199
Body MaterialPolycarbonatePolycarbonateMagnesium Alloy & Polycarbonate
LCD Size / Resolution3.o"
230,000
3.o"
921,000
3.0"
921,000 pixels
LCD Articulated?NoYesNo
Highest RAW file bit-depth12-bit14-bit14-bit
Sensor Resolution14.2 Megapixels16.2 Megapixels16.2 Megapixels
ISO Range100-3200
+6400
+12800
100-6400
+12800
+25600
100-6400
+12800
+25600
Total AF Focus Points111139
Cross-Type AF Sensors119
Metering System420 pixel RGB sensor evaluative
6% Center Weighted
2.5% Spot
420 pixel RGB sensor evaluative2016 pixel RGB Metering Sensor
Built-In HDR ProcessingNoYesNo
Max Frame Rate : JPG3fps4fps6fps
Shutter Speed Range1/4000th - 30 sec.
+bulb
1/4000th - 30 sec.
+bulb
1/8000th - 30 sec.
+bulb
Maximum Flash Sync Shutter Speed (standard flash)1/200th sec.1/200th sec.1/250th sec.
Built-In Wireless Control of Dedicated StrobesNoNoYes
Available HD Video Frame Rates24fps @ 1080p
24 or 30 fps @720p
24 or 30 fps @ 1080p
24 or 30 fps @720p
24fps @ 1080p,
24 or 30 fps @720p
Media TypeSD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC
(2 slots)
Weight455g (body only)560g690g (body only)
780g with battery
Viewfinder Coverage95%
.80x
95%
.78x
100% Frame,
.95x magnification

.

Construction

The body of the D5100 is constructed of polycarbonate plastic, and is therefore more in line with the D3100, though that is to be expected in this price range.  Whether this is a drawback or advantage is a toss-up; many photographers prefer to carry a lighter body, especially when hiking or traveling, while others prefer the solid feel and durability of metal.

New to the D5100, though, is a high resolution, articulated LCD monitor. This 921,000 pixel screen puts the 230,000 pixel LCD of the D3100 (and D5000) to shame. Much like those found in the Canon T3i and 60D, the D5100’s LCD can be flipped out to the camera’s left side and swiveled 360 degrees (while the  D5000’s hinged at the bottom). The ability for LCDs to face forward (unobstructed by the camera support) is popular among video bloggers and others who want to directly monitor the screen while recording themselves.

D5100 Articulated LCD Open rear view

Performance

When it comes to image quality, we can expect very similar performance between the D5100 and the D7000, as they make use of the same sensor and report the same ISO range. The D3100’s sensor is somewhat lower in resolution, but the practical difference between 14 and 16 megapixels is negligible for many photographers.

When it comes to auto-focus performance, though, the D5100 is on par with the D3100: it offers 11 AF points, and like the D3100, it appears that only one of them is a cross-type. The D7000, on the other hand, sports 39 AF points, 9 of which are cross-type (which perform better in difficult AF situations).  This is not to say that the AF system on the D5100 won’t get the job done; the Canon 5D MarkII has been used by thousands of professionals, and has only 9 AF points, and 1 cross-type. It does mean, however, that you’ll likely achieve more reliable AF performance with the D7000, particularly in difficult focusing situations.

As for camera speed, the D5100 is intermediate. It lacks the top shutter speeds of the D7000 (up to 1/8000th sec.), falling short at 1/4000ths of a second. While this is disappointing on paper, I can probably count the number of times that I’ve shot at 1/8000th sec. on my fingers, though all of my cameras since 1992 have had the capability. At 4 frames per second, the burst speed of the D5100 is intermediate between the D3100 (3 fps) and the D7000 (6 fps).

Flash

Nikon D5100 With Flash RaisedAdherents to the Joe McNally school of flash technique will be disappointed to discover that the Nikon D5100 does not incorporate the ability to wirelessly control off-camera flash. Though this is always achievable with the use of optional hardware (such as hot-shoe mounted Speedlights or Pocket Wizards), this is a native feature that will be sorely missed.  When it comes to sync speeds, the D5100 is on equal footing with the D3100 at 1/200th of a second, slower than the D7000’s official 1/250th (though testing has shown that 1/320th is possible).

Video

It seems that Nikon has been listening to the SLR-for-video crowd. The D5100 is Nikon’s most video-friendly camera to date.

First, Nikon has finally given us a camera that can shoot 1080p video at 30 fps in addition to 24/25 fps, which is an important feature for those working with US broadcast standards or other video cameras that are shooting 30fps. And, like the D3100, the D5100 offers full-time autofocus while shooting video, with face detection (though AF is still quite slow compared to phase-detect systems like the Sony A55).

The thought put into the D5100’s audio recording is also worth noting. Like the D7000 (but not the D3100), the D5100 offers manual control of  audio recording levels (low, medium, and high gain) in addition to auto-gain. Nikon concurrently announced the ME-1, hotshoe-mount stereo microphone (sold separately), which not only offers higher quality stereo sound, its position outside of the camera housing eliminates noise from focusing and other control manipulations. Though similar devices have been available from 3rd party manufacturers, this is the first such offering from the camera maker.

Finally, Nikon offers in camera video editing and a variety of creative toning effects.

Which Should You Buy?

As usual, the answer depends heavily on your goals and in this case to a lesser extent, your skill level.

You Should Consider the D5100 if:

  • You want D7000-like image quality in a lighter package
  • Will make use of the additional video frame rates
  • Would like the added flexibility of an articulated LCD

You Should Consider the D7000 if:

  • Your work depends on the most reliable AF
  • You want a heavier, more professional feeling body and don’t want to worry about breaking an articulated LCD
  • You’re a Strobist or otherwise use a lot of flash
  • You have a collection of older Nikon lenses that require an in-body motor for AF operation

You Should Consider the D3100 if:

  • You want to get started with a Nikon but don’t have the money to afford a D5100 and accessories, or
  • You’re a casual photographer but want higher quality and more flexibility and control than is offered by a point and shoot

Comparing three complex cameras in such a short space necessitates leaving some issues out… so if I haven’t answered your question, please feel free to leave a comment below and perhaps I’ll be able to help.

 

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Abhishek Tiwari

Hey Matthew!
Pretty nice comparison with detailed review. however, I have a question for you. I want to buy a dslr (semi-pro or entry level), outgrowing from point and shoot. My budget is $800.
Since this would be my 1st dslr so it got to be special and people should praise after seeing that in my hand.
Within my budget I opted for 2 DSLRs viz nikon d3200 & d5100 ( d7000 was my fav. but its out of my budget). after so much of research, I found these models(D5100 and D3200) are pretty much the same. Thus I want an expert opinion on this.
My concerns are :
1. The build quality ( I heard d3200 is more plastic in nature however I like heavy and rubbery kind of feel)
2. Image quality
3. Does pixel really matter? I prefer not. but still, does it matter?
4. Shooting sports or dance performance or discotheque (darK ambience) pics.
5. Should work more precisely using prime lenses. (for macro)

I know its like wanting everything in one. but you got to help me out. I preferred D5100 but people are saying that it’s an old one thus will have low resale value whereas d3200 will be more (if i want to upgrade in future to buy more semi pro like D7000 or D7100)

canon never excited me, coz it basically a master in video making whereas I am more into still photography.

Thanks.

Abhishek Tiwari

Hey!
Wow, Such a fast response. I am flattered.
Anyway, Don’t you think, the more the pixel the less it will perform in low light. I understand it all depends on the type of lens i choose but with a kit lens d3200 will be more noisy.
and also it has auto focus issues while doing videos but it is seen in case of D5100 too. I am so confused. I like D5100 coz its more user friendly, as i dont have to go in the menus to change aperture and shutter speed like in d3200. and it has got HDR mode and other quite interesting modes while operating the cam.
Damn! the more I research the more confuse i get.

Thanks.

Abhishek Tiwari

Thanks a ton Matthew!!
By the way just now I saw, it was 2 am there. I must appreciate your dedication solving one’s problem at odd times.

Well, I am totally convinced now. I am gonna go with D3200 only with kit lens and 50mm 1.8 lens for usual street photography (and macro).

Yah True, it has battery issue and battery grip will give me an edge plus the professional look.

Thanks again>
:))

Yevgen

Can you give a few words about 5100 vs canon 60d?

Yevgen

Thanks! it will be interesting!