Best Equipment

Nikon D5300 vs D3300 – Best Nikon Entry Level DSLR

If you want a DSLR that is appropriate for complete beginners and more advanced users, Nikon currently offers two great models; the Nikon D5300 and Nikon D3300. Take a look at how they compare, and which one you should go for!

nikon-d5300-vs-d3300-small

 Nikon D5300Nikon D3300
Megapixels24.224.2
Sensor TypeCMOSCMOS
Sensor Size23.5 x 15.623.2 x 15.4mm
Sensor TypeAPS-C/DXAPS-C/DX
Image Resolution6000 x 40006016 x 4000
ISO Range100 - 25,600100 - 25,600
ProcessorExpeed 4 Expeed 4
AF Points3911
Burst Mode5fps5fps
LCD Size3.2" Articulating LCD Screen3.0" Fixed LCD
LCD Resolution1,037,000 dots921,000 dots
Viewfinder Coverage95%95%
Viewfinder Magnification0.82x0.85x
Viewfinder TypePentamirrorPentamirror
Shutter Speed Range1/4000 to 30 sec.1/4000 to 30 sec.
Exposure Compensation±5 EV±5 EV
Storage TypeSD/SDHC/SDXCSD/SDHC/SDXC
Full HD Video1,920 x 1,080 (60fps)
1,920 x 1,080 (50fps)
1,920 x 1,080 (30fps)
1,920 x 1080 (25fps)
1,920 x 1,080 (24fps)
1,920 x 1,080 (60fps)
1,920 x 1,080 (50fps)
1,920 x 1,080 (30fps)
1,920 x 1080 (25fps)
1,920 x 1,080 (24fps)
Weight (inc. batteries)480g (1.06lb)430g (0.95lb)
Battery Life600 Shots (CIPA)700 Shots (CIPA)
Dimensions125 x 98 x 76 mm124 x 98 x 76 mm
PriceAmazon
Amazon
Release Date20132014

nikon-d5300

Advantages Of Nikon D5300

It’s the most advanced entry level DSLR from Nikon, so it should be much better, right?

  • 28 more auto focusing points, faster and more precise focusing
  • 3.2″ Articulating LCD screen (compared to fixed)
  • Slightly higher LCD resolution

You can see more about the Nikon D5300 at Amazon.

nikon-d3300

Advantages of Nikon D3300

  • Slightly bigger viewfinder magnification
  • 50g lighter
  • 700 vs 600 shot battery life

For more information, check the D3300 at Amazon.

I’m not sure which way to look at this. Either the D3300 is so good, or the D5300 is overpriced. These two cameras have plenty of things in common:

  • 24 megapixels
  • ISO from 100 to 25,600
  • 5 frames per second
  • Similar size and weight
  • Same video frame rates

The list goes on, but the biggest difference to me is the AF system. Whether that’s worth an extra $250 (assuming you get the D5300 with 18-55mm), it’s up to you. Personally I would wait a bit before getting any of these two models, and would only consider the D5300 with the new 18-140mm lens.

Nikon D3300 definitely wins in terms of price/performance.

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