Nikon D3300 vs D5200: Which Dslr Should You Buy?
Choosing your first DSLR can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry! The Nikon D3300 and D5200 are two fantastic options for aspiring photographers. Both offer excellent image quality and a wide range of features, but they cater to slightly different needs and budgets.
This comparison delves into the key differences between the Nikon D3300 and the D5200, helping you understand which camera best suits your photographic journey. We’ll explore everything from sensor performance and autofocus capabilities to video features and overall user experience.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy-to-use camera or a more experienced shooter seeking advanced features, this guide will provide the insights you need. Get ready to discover which Nikon DSLR, the D3300 or the D5200, will help you capture your vision.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | D3300 | D5200 |
|---|---|---|
| Megapixels | 24.2 MP | 24.1 MP |
| Sensor Size | APS-C | APS-C |
| ISO Range | 100-12800 | 100-6400 |
| Continuous Shooting | 5 fps | 5 fps |
| Video Resolution | 1080p | 1080p |
| LCD Screen | 3.0-inch | 3.0-inch articulated |
| Autofocus Points | 11 | 39 |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 95% | 95% |
| Built-in Flash | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (Body Only) | 410g | 505g |
| Wi-Fi | No | Requires Adapter |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 700 shots | 500 shots |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor Resolution
- Nikon D3300: Features a 24.2MP DX-format CMOS sensor, delivering excellent detail and sharpness in images. It offers a good balance of resolution and low-light performance. However, some users might find the resolution slightly limiting for extreme cropping.
- D5200: Also equipped with a 24.1MP DX-format CMOS sensor, providing almost identical resolution to the D3300. This ensures similar levels of detail capture. The D5200 also performs well in various shooting conditions.
- Winner: Tie
Autofocus System
- Nikon D3300: Utilizes an 11-point autofocus system. While functional, it may struggle with fast-moving subjects or in challenging lighting conditions. The system is adequate for general photography.
- D5200: Boasts a more advanced 39-point autofocus system. This offers significantly improved subject tracking and accuracy, especially when shooting action or using continuous autofocus.
- Winner: d5200
ISO Range
- Nikon D3300: Has a native ISO range of 100-12800, expandable to 25600. Offers acceptable performance in low light, though noise becomes more noticeable at higher ISO settings.
- D5200: Also offers a native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 25600. Performance at high ISO is generally comparable to the D3300.
- Winner: Tie
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Nikon D3300: Shoots at up to 5 frames per second (fps). Suitable for capturing some action, but might not be fast enough for very rapid sequences.
- D5200: Shoots at up to 5 frames per second (fps). Similar to the D3300, it also offers a decent burst rate for general photography.
- Winner: Tie
Video Recording
- Nikon D3300: Records Full HD 1080p video at up to 60fps. Offers good video quality for its class, but lacks some advanced video features.
- D5200: Also records Full HD 1080p video at up to 60fps. Provides similar video quality, but may offer slightly more manual control over video settings.
- Winner: Tie
LCD Screen
- Nikon D3300: Features a 3.0-inch LCD screen with 921,000 dots. Offers a clear display for reviewing photos and navigating menus. It is a fixed LCD.
- D5200: Has a 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD screen with 921,000 dots. This articulating screen offers greater flexibility for shooting from different angles and is a significant advantage.
- Winner: d5200
Build Quality and Ergonomics
- Nikon D3300: Has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around. The build quality is good for its price point, but it feels less robust than higher-end models.
- D5200: Generally has a slightly more substantial feel and better ergonomics. The build quality is a step up from the D3300, providing a more comfortable grip and control layout.
- Winner: d5200
Connectivity
- Nikon D3300: Offers basic connectivity options, including a USB port and HDMI output. It lacks built-in Wi-Fi, which means transferring photos wirelessly requires an external adapter.
- D5200: Also includes a USB port and HDMI output. Some versions may have built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for easier photo sharing and remote camera control.
- Winner: d5200
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Image Quality | Tie |
| Autofocus System | D5200 |
| Ergonomics | D5200 |
| Video Features | Tie |
| Battery Life | D3300 |
| LCD Screen | D5200 |
| Overall Value | D3300 |
What They Have in Common
- Sensor Size: Both cameras feature an APS-C sensor, offering a good balance between image quality and camera size. This sensor size is a common choice for DSLR cameras.
- Video Recording: Both the D3300 and D5200 can record Full HD 1080p videos, suitable for general video recording needs. They both provide decent video quality for their class.
- Viewfinder Coverage: Both cameras have a 95% viewfinder coverage, which helps in framing your shots effectively. This means you see almost the entire scene through the viewfinder.
- Built-in Flash: Both cameras come equipped with a built-in flash, providing a convenient light source for low-light situations or fill flash. This is useful in a variety of shooting conditions.
- Image Processor: Both cameras use a similar image processor, which contributes to their overall image quality and performance. This processor handles the processing of image data.
Nikon D3300 Vs D5200 Buying Guide
Image Quality and Sensor Performance
The Nikon D3300 and D5200 both boast impressive image quality, thanks to their APS-C sensors. The D3300 offers a slightly newer sensor design, often resulting in marginally better low-light performance and dynamic range. Both cameras produce images with excellent detail and color accuracy in good lighting conditions. However, the D5200’s higher resolution sensor (24.1MP vs. 24.2MP on the D3300) can sometimes provide slightly more flexibility when cropping images. The overall image quality is very similar, with the D3300 having a small edge in noise performance.
Autofocus and Shooting Speed
Both cameras feature capable autofocus systems, crucial for capturing sharp images. The D5200’s autofocus system, with 39 focus points, is generally considered more advanced than the D3300’s 11-point system. This translates to better subject tracking and performance, especially when shooting moving subjects. The D3300 offers a slightly faster continuous shooting speed, allowing it to capture more frames per second. The D5200’s more sophisticated autofocus system is a significant advantage for action photography.
Ergonomics and Build Quality
The D3300 and D5200 share a similar build quality, utilizing durable plastic construction. The D5200 is slightly larger and heavier, offering a more substantial feel in the hand. This can be beneficial for users with larger hands. Both cameras offer comfortable grips and well-placed controls. The D5200’s slightly more complex button layout may take some getting used to for beginners. The D3300’s simpler design is considered more user-friendly for novice photographers.
Video Capabilities
Both cameras can record Full HD 1080p video, making them suitable for video enthusiasts. The D5200 offers a wider range of frame rate options and a slightly more advanced video feature set. The D5200 features a microphone jack for external microphones, enhancing audio quality for video recordings. The D3300 lacks this feature. The D5200 is the clear winner for videographers, with its added features and improved audio options. The D3300 is adequate for casual video recording.
Features and Connectivity
The D5200 boasts a few extra features not found on the D3300. The D5200 has a vari-angle LCD screen, offering greater flexibility for composing shots from different angles. It also has a built-in intervalometer, allowing for time-lapse photography. The D3300 is a more streamlined camera, lacking these advanced features. Both cameras offer basic connectivity options, including USB and HDMI ports. The D5200’s additional features make it more versatile.
Price and Value
The Nikon D3300 is generally more affordable than the D5200, making it an excellent value for budget-conscious photographers. The D5200, despite its higher price, offers a more comprehensive feature set and better overall performance. The best choice depends on your needs and budget. If you prioritize advanced features and video capabilities, the D5200 is worth the extra investment. However, if you are a beginner and prioritize simplicity, the D3300 provides excellent value. Both are great cameras.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy D3300 If…
- You’re looking for an affordable entry-level DSLR.
- You prioritize a smaller and lighter camera body.
- You want excellent battery life.
- You are a beginner and don’t need advanced features.
Buy D5200 If…
- You want a camera with a more advanced autofocus system.
- You desire a fully articulated LCD screen for creative angles.
- You need a camera with more advanced features and controls.
- You prefer a camera with a higher resolution LCD.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which camera has better image quality?
Both cameras offer excellent image quality, but the D3300 often has a slight edge due to its newer sensor design, translating to marginally improved low-light performance and dynamic range. The resolution difference is minimal. However, both cameras produce detailed and vibrant images, and the difference is often negligible in real-world scenarios. The choice depends on your specific needs.
Which camera is better for beginners?
The Nikon D3300 is arguably better for beginners due to its simpler interface and more user-friendly controls. It has fewer buttons and a more straightforward menu system, making it easier to learn the basics of photography. The D5200, with its more complex features, might be overwhelming for new users. The D3300’s simpler design allows users to focus on learning photography fundamentals.
Does the D5200 have a vari-angle screen?
Yes, the Nikon D5200 features a vari-angle LCD screen, allowing you to tilt and swivel the screen for composing shots from various angles. This is particularly useful for shooting at low or high angles, such as over crowds or from ground level. The D3300, in contrast, has a fixed LCD screen. This feature enhances versatility and creative possibilities.
Which camera has a better autofocus system?
The Nikon D5200 has a more advanced autofocus system with 39 focus points, compared to the D3300’s 11-point system. This translates to better subject tracking and performance, particularly when shooting moving subjects. The D5200’s autofocus system is more reliable and accurate, especially in challenging shooting situations. It provides a significant advantage for action and sports photography.
Is the D3300 better for video recording?
The D5200 is generally better for video recording. It offers more frame rate options and includes a microphone jack for external microphones, significantly improving audio quality. The D3300 lacks the microphone jack. While both cameras can record Full HD 1080p video, the D5200 provides a more professional video experience. This is especially important for serious videographers.
What are the key differences in build quality?
Both cameras are built using durable plastic construction, but the D5200 is slightly larger and heavier, offering a more substantial feel in the hand. The D5200’s build quality feels slightly more premium. Both cameras are comfortable to hold. However, the D5200 is generally considered to be built slightly better due to its more complex design.
Which camera is more affordable?
The Nikon D3300 is typically more affordable than the D5200. This makes the D3300 an excellent value for budget-conscious photographers. The D5200 offers more features and performance, but comes with a higher price tag. The best choice depends on your budget and desired features. The D3300 is a great option for beginners looking for a cost-effective camera.
Final Verdict
The Nikon D5200 edges out the D3300 due to its more advanced autofocus system, vari-angle screen, and superior video capabilities. While the D3300 offers slightly better image quality in some scenarios and is more user-friendly for beginners, the D5200 provides a more versatile and feature-rich experience, especially for those interested in video or advanced photography. The D5200 offers a better overall experience.
Winner: Nikon D5200