CameraReview

Canon EOS 60D vs Nikon D3200 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Canon EOS 60D
Canon
Canon EOS 60D
DSLR · 18 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
47
SCORE
$173
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✓ WINNER
Nikon D3200
Nikon
Nikon D3200
DSLR · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
54
SCORE
$171.43
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General
Brand CanonNikon
Model EOS 60DD3200
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20102012
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
26/08/201019/04/2012
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 145 x 106 x 79 mm125 x 96 x 77 mm
Camera weight 755 g505 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
18 MP05024.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5184 x 34566016 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
14.9 x 22.315.4 x 23.2
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
5.3 fps0454 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon EF-SNikon F DX
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 4Expeed 3
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
12800300328000064003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
503020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
128003003280000128003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000400080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
90300110300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)Optical (pentamirror)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HDFull HD
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 10801920 x 1080
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
30 fps30 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MOVMOV
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
104000011500015000009210001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6EN-EL14
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1100 shots1505000540 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D3200 outperforms the Canon EOS 60D with a score of 54/100 compared to 47/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, announced in 2012 and 2010, respectively. They share similarities in camera type and size, with the Canon EOS 60D measuring 145 x 106 x 79mm and the Nikon D3200 at 125 x 96 x 77mm.

The Canon EOS 60D has advantages in its launch price of $1199 and weight of 755g. However, the Nikon D3200 surpasses it with a lower launch price of $699 and lighter weight of 505g, making it more budget-friendly and easier to carry.

Taking all factors into account, the Nikon D3200 emerges as the winner due to its better score, affordability, and portability, while the Canon EOS 60D falls short in these aspects.

Canon EOS 60D vs Nikon D3200 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D3200 triumphs over the Canon EOS 60D in optics with a score of 63/100, while the Canon EOS 60D stands at 43/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, and the absence of image stabilization.

The Nikon D3200 excels in several aspects, starting with its higher 24.2 megapixels compared to the Canon EOS 60D’s 18 megapixels. This difference allows the Nikon D3200 to capture more detailed images. Additionally, the Nikon D3200 has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 81, compared to the Canon EOS 60D’s score of 66, which means the Nikon D3200’s sensor performs better in areas such as low-light performance, dynamic range, and color depth. Moreover, the Nikon D3200’s processor, Expeed 3, is more advanced than the Canon EOS 60D’s Digic 4 processor, contributing to faster processing and better image quality.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 60D has a faster shooting speed of 5.3fps, compared to the Nikon D3200’s 4fps. This advantage makes the Canon EOS 60D more suited for capturing fast-moving subjects or action shots.

Taking into account these factors, the Nikon D3200 outperforms the Canon EOS 60D in terms of image quality and sensor performance, making it the better choice for photographers who prioritize these aspects. However, the Canon EOS 60D’s faster shooting speed may appeal to those who need to capture quick moments. Ultimately, individuals must weigh these differences and decide which camera best meets their specific needs and preferences.

Canon EOS 60D vs Nikon D3200 Video Performance

The Canon EOS 60D and Nikon D3200 both have a video score of 43 out of 100. This reveals that there is no clear winner in the video capabilities department between the two cameras. They share common video specifications, such as having a maximum video resolution of Full HD (1920×1080) and a maximum video frame rate of 30fps. Additionally, both cameras lack built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Canon EOS 60D does not have any specific video features that make it better than the Nikon D3200 since they share the same video capabilities. Similarly, the Nikon D3200 does not have any specific video advantages over the Canon EOS 60D. This means that neither camera stands out as a superior choice when it comes to video capabilities.

In the case of video capabilities, the Canon EOS 60D and Nikon D3200 are equal, as they share the same specifications and lack any unique features that would give one an advantage over the other. Therefore, potential buyers should consider other factors, such as price, ease of use, and additional features, when deciding between these two cameras.

Canon EOS 60D vs Nikon D3200 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 60D outperforms the Nikon D3200 with a feature score of 57/100 compared to the latter’s 41/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, lack of touchscreen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities.

The Canon EOS 60D excels in screen resolution and versatility, boasting a screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, significantly higher than the Nikon D3200’s 921,000 dots. This higher resolution provides a clearer and sharper image display. Additionally, the EOS 60D has a flip screen, allowing for greater flexibility when composing shots from different angles. This feature is absent in the Nikon D3200, limiting its usability in certain situations.

Despite the lower feature score, the Nikon D3200 still has its advantages. Both cameras lack touchscreen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities, which means that neither has a distinct edge in these areas. However, the D3200’s lower score does not necessarily indicate that it is a worse camera overall, as it may excel in other aspects not covered in this comparison.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 60D emerges as the superior camera in terms of features, primarily due to its higher screen resolution and the presence of a flip screen. The Nikon D3200, while lacking in these areas, maintains parity with the EOS 60D in other aspects. Ultimately, the decision between the two cameras will depend on the individual’s preferences and specific needs, with the EOS 60D offering greater flexibility and image display quality.

Canon EOS 60D vs Nikon D3200 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 60D outperforms the Nikon D3200 in storage and battery with a score of 45/100, while the Nikon D3200 scores 27/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.

The Canon EOS 60D’s superior battery life provides 1100 shots, using the LP-E6 battery type. This is a significant advantage over the Nikon D3200, which offers 540 shots with its EN-EL14 battery type. The extended battery life allows for more extended shooting sessions and less worry about battery depletion.

The Nikon D3200, however, is compatible with UHS-I SD cards, which allow for faster data transfer rates. This compatibility can be beneficial when dealing with large files or continuous shooting. Despite this advantage, the Nikon D3200 still falls short in overall storage and battery performance.

Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Canon EOS 60D is the better choice, thanks to its longer battery life. The Nikon D3200’s UHS-I compatibility is a plus, but it does not outweigh the Canon’s extended battery life advantage.

Canon EOS 60D vs Nikon D3200 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 60D vs Nikon D3200 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 60D or the Nikon D3200: