Difference Between Nikon D3100 and D5000

Nikon D3100 vs D5000

Nikon D3100 and D5000 are two DSLR from Nikon. When it comes to DSLR cameras, there is none to beat Nikon. Nikon D3100 and D5000 are hugely popular both among photography enthusiasts and professionals. There are many similarities between these two models that prompt comparisons but there are many differences also that this article will highlight. Knowing pros and cons of both models will help readers desirous of buying either of the two models.

D5000

D5000 is a relatively new member of the huge DSLR family from Nikon. It has a 12.3 MP sensor, HD video capability, and a 2.7 inch bright LCD as a viewfinder. It has a small frame, but has amazing features. It has an ISO range of 200 to 3200 with high settings going up to 6400. D5000 makes use of the latest EXPEED image processing system that reduces noises and optimizes images. However, it has a slow fps of 4.

D5000 records videos in HD at a resolution of 1280X720 pixels. However, as it cannot auto focus while recording videos, it is better to record clippings rather than long videos and put them on video editor. Taking videos becomes fun with a 2.7” LCD.

D3100

D3100 is an entry level DSLR having a 14.2 MP sensor, a quick access Live View mode, a 3.0” LCD screen, one touch video recording (HD), and a 11 point auto focus mode. It has an ISO range of 100-3200, same as D5000, but the high setting goes up to 12800, which is more than D5000. This is why it is a preferred choice for various light settings. Aimed at beginners, D3100 is a light and compact DSLR.

D3100 can record HD videos at 24fps at highest resolution settings, while at a lower setting of 1280X720 pixels one can go up to 30fps. D3100 also has EXPEED image processing system.

Some of the notable differences between these two DSLR are as following.

Difference between Nikon D3100 and D5000 • While D3100 has a 14.2MP sensor measuring 23.1X15.4mm, D500, though having a bigger sensor at 23.6X15.8MM has lower resolution of 12.3 MP. • Sensitivity of D3100 is more as it starts from 100 and goes up to 3200. On the other hand D500 has a range of 200-3200. However, for higher settings, D3100 can go higher at 12800 which is one stop more than D5000 • While 3100 has a 3” LCD, D5000 has a smaller 2.7 inch LCD screen. • Bracketing is possible in D5000 while it is not possible in D3100 • While D3100 is categorized in entry level DSLR, D5000 is high end DSLR. • D5000 allows more options for D-lighting while there are just on and off functions for D-lighting in D3100. • D3100 shoots at 3fps, whereas D5000 shoots at 4fps. • D3100 is slightly smaller and lighter than D5000 • D3100 is much cheaper than D5000.