CameraReview

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs Nikon D5300 — Which Is Better?

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

Nikon Coolpix P900
Nikon
Nikon Coolpix P900
Bridge · 16 MP · 1/2.3” · Standard HD video
48
SCORE
No live offers
✓ WINNER
Nikon D5300
Nikon
Nikon D5300
DSLR · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
57
SCORE
$318.55
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General
Brand NikonNikon
Model Coolpix P900D5300
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20152013
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
02/03/201517/10/2013
Camera type BridgeDSLR
Camera size 140 x 103 x 137 mm125 x 98 x 76 mm
Camera weight 899 g480 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
16 MP05024.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4608 x 34566000 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.
6.17 x 4.5515.6 x 23.5
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
1/2.3”APS-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.
7 fps0455 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.
FixedNikon F DX
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed C2Expeed 4
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.
64003003280000128003003280000
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.
1003020010030200
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.
128003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
15440803044080
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.
400080032000400080032000
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.
10300390300
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.
ElectronicOptical (pentamirror)
Viewfinder dots 92100009900000N/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.
Standard 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.
1280 x 7201920 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.
60 fps60 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.
MPEG-4, 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 TFT 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"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
921000115000150000010370001150001500000
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
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL23EN-EL14a
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
360 shots1505000600 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D5300 comes out ahead with a score of 57/100, compared to the Nikon Coolpix P900‘s 48/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as their announcement dates in the 2010s and similar launch prices. However, the D5300, a DSLR camera, offers better performance than the P900, a bridge camera.

The D5300’s advantages include a lighter weight of 480g and smaller dimensions of 125 x 98 x 76mm, making it more portable. On the other hand, the P900 is heavier at 899g and larger with dimensions of 140 x 103 x 137mm. However, the P900 does have its merits, such as a lower launch price of $599 compared to the D5300’s $800.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D5300 is the superior choice due to its better performance and portability. The Nikon Coolpix P900 remains a reasonable option for those on a tighter budget.

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D5300 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D5300 wins in optics with a score of 65/100, while the Nikon Coolpix P900 scores 53/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, but differences in their features contribute to the distinct scores.

The Nikon D5300 has a higher megapixel count of 24.2, compared to the P900’s 16 megapixels. This allows the D5300 to capture more detailed images. Moreover, the D5300 has a superior Expeed 4 processor, which contributes to its improved performance. With a DXOMARK sensor score of 83, the D5300’s APS-C sensor size outperforms the P900’s 1/2.3″ sensor, which has a score of 72. Additionally, the D5300 features a Nikon F DX lens mount, enabling users to interchange lenses and expand their photography capabilities.

On the other hand, the Nikon Coolpix P900 has a faster shooting speed of 7 frames per second, compared to the D5300’s 5 frames per second. This makes the P900 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. Furthermore, the P900 offers image stabilization, which the D5300 lacks. This feature helps reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially in low light conditions or when using longer focal lengths.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D5300 is the better camera in terms of optics, offering higher image quality, a more advanced processor, and a versatile lens mount. However, the Nikon Coolpix P900 holds its own with a faster shooting speed and image stabilization. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D5300 Video Performance

The Nikon D5300 outperforms the Nikon Coolpix P900 in video capabilities, with a video score of 70/100 compared to the P900’s score of 61/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of 1920 x 1080, a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.

The D5300’s higher video score reflects its better video quality due to its Full HD resolution, which offers sharper and more detailed footage than the P900’s Standard HD resolution. This difference in resolution can make a significant impact on the overall viewing experience, especially when watching videos on larger screens or using the footage for professional purposes.

On the other hand, the P900 does not excel in any specific video aspect compared to the D5300. Both cameras have the same maximum video dimensions, frame rate, and time-lapse functionality, so the P900 does not offer any unique advantages in this area.

In comparing the Nikon Coolpix P900 and the Nikon D5300, it is clear that the D5300 has superior video capabilities due to its Full HD resolution and higher video score. While the P900 does not offer any distinct advantages in video performance, it still provides satisfactory video quality for casual users. However, for those seeking a camera with better video quality, the Nikon D5300 is the recommended choice.

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D5300 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D5300 wins the comparison with a feature score of 46 out of 100, while the Nikon Coolpix P900 scores 41 out of 100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, no touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and no Bluetooth.

The D5300 has a slightly larger screen size at 3.2 inches compared to the P900’s 3 inches. Additionally, the D5300’s screen resolution is higher at 1,037,000 dots, providing a clearer and more detailed image preview. This advantage makes the D5300 better for photographers who want a more accurate representation of their shots on the camera screen.

On the other hand, the Coolpix P900 still has some strong points despite its lower feature score. It possesses a flip screen, GPS, and WIFI, which are also present in the D5300. These features allow for flexibility in shooting angles, location tracking, and easy sharing of images. However, the P900 does not surpass the D5300 in any specific feature.

Considering the feature scores and specifications, the Nikon D5300 is the better camera due to its larger screen size and higher screen resolution. The Coolpix P900, while having some similar features, does not offer any significant advantages over the D5300. Photographers who prioritize image preview quality and a slightly larger screen should opt for the Nikon D5300.

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D5300 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D5300 surpasses the Nikon Coolpix P900 in storage and battery with a score of 29 points, compared to the P900’s 21 points. Both cameras share similarities in their storage capabilities, as each has a single memory card slot and accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the D5300 proves to be the better option in terms of battery life and type.

The D5300 has a longer battery life of 600 shots, which is a significant advantage over the P900’s 360 shots. Additionally, the D5300 uses the EN-EL14a battery type, while the P900 relies on the EN-EL23 battery. Neither camera supports USB charging.

Despite the P900’s lower score, it does not have any notable advantages over the D5300 in storage and battery aspects. The D5300’s superior battery life makes it a more reliable choice for extended photography sessions or for those who prioritize longer usage without needing to change or recharge batteries.

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D5300 – Our Verdict

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Coolpix P900 or the Nikon D5300: