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Nikon D300 vs D3X Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Nikon D300

Nikon D300 camera image
49%

Nikon D3X

Nikon D3X
Winner!
64%
Nikon D300
vs
Nikon D3X
Price
Brand
Nikon
Nikon
Model
D300
D3X
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2007
2008
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
August 23, 2007
December 01, 2008
Camera Type
DSLR
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Nikon D3X takes the lead with a score of 64/100, while the Nikon D300 trails behind at 49/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, announced in 2007 and 2008 respectively. They share similarities in their camera type and design.

The D3X stands out with its higher score, reflecting its superior performance. However, the D300 has an advantage in terms of price, with a launch price of $1540 compared to the D3X’s hefty $9172. Additionally, the D300 is lighter and more compact, measuring 147 x 114 x 74mm and weighing 925g, while the D3X measures 160 x 157 x 88mm and weighs 1260g.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D3X offers better performance, but the D300 provides a more budget-friendly and portable option.

Nikon D300 vs D3X Overview and Optics

The Nikon D3X emerges as the winner in the optics comparison, scoring 65/100, while the Nikon D300 lags behind with a score of 47/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, Expeed processor, Nikon F lens mount, and the lack of image stabilization. However, there are significant differences between the two cameras that contribute to the D3X’s higher score.

The Nikon D3X boasts a higher megapixel count of 24.5, compared to the D300’s 12.3 megapixels. This means the D3X is capable of capturing more detail and producing higher resolution images, which is an important factor for professional photographers. Furthermore, the D3X has a full-frame sensor, whereas the D300 uses an APS-C sensor. Full-frame sensors generally provide better image quality, especially in low light conditions, and offer a shallower depth of field for more pleasing bokeh. The D3X also has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, at 88, compared to the D300’s score of 67, reflecting the overall better performance of the sensor.

On the other hand, the Nikon D300 has a faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second, compared to the D3X’s 5 frames per second. This could be advantageous for photographers who need to capture fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife. However, this advantage does not outweigh the superior image quality and resolution offered by the D3X.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D3X stands out as the better camera in terms of optics, offering higher resolution, better image quality, and a superior sensor. The Nikon D300’s faster shooting speed may be advantageous in certain situations, but it is not enough to surpass the overall performance of the D3X.

Optics
Optics
47%
65%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
12.3 MP
24.5 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4288 x 2848 px
6048 x 4032 px
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOS
CMOS
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.
15.8 x 23.6 mm
24 x 35.9 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-C
Full Frame
Frame Rate
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
6 fps
5 fps
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.
Nikon F DX
Nikon F FX
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed
Expeed
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.
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
200
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
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.
3,200
1,600
Minimum 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.
100
50
Maximum 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.
6400
6400
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30 s
30 s
Maximum 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.
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
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.
51
51
In-body Stabilization
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 (pentaprism)

Nikon D300 vs D3X Video Performance

When examining the video capabilities of the Nikon D300 and Nikon D3X, it is important to note that neither camera has video functionality. This means that both cameras are unable to record video footage. The absence of video features does not determine which camera is better, but simply highlights a missing feature in both models.

Video
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Time-Lapse 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.

Nikon D300 vs D3X Features and Benefits

The Nikon D300 and Nikon D3X both have a feature score of 54 out of 100, indicating that these cameras share many similarities in their features. Both cameras have a 3-inch screen, with the D300 having a slightly higher screen resolution of 922,000 dots compared to the D3X’s 920,000 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WiFi, or Bluetooth.

The winning camera in terms of features is not clear-cut, as both cameras share the same score. However, there are some minor differences that can set them apart. The Nikon D300 has a marginally higher screen resolution, which may provide a slightly clearer image preview and menu navigation experience. This difference, though small, may be a deciding factor for some users who prioritize image clarity on their camera’s screen.

On the other hand, the Nikon D3X does not have any specific advantages over the D300 in terms of features. Both cameras lack modern connectivity options such as WiFi and Bluetooth, which may be a drawback for users who require quick and easy photo sharing or remote control capabilities.

Considering the shared features and minor differences between the Nikon D300 and Nikon D3X, it is difficult to determine a clear winner. The D300 has a slightly higher screen resolution, but this advantage is minimal and may not significantly impact the user experience. Both cameras lack several modern features, which may be a deal-breaker for some potential buyers. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras will likely come down to personal preference and other factors such as price, performance, and overall design.

Features
Features
54%
54%
Built-in 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
LCD
LCD
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 Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
922,000 dots
920,000 dots
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
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.

Nikon D300 vs D3X Storage and Battery

The Nikon D3X triumphs over the Nikon D300 in storage and battery with a score of 87/100, compared to the D300’s 43/100. Both cameras utilize Compact Flash (Type I or II) memory cards, and neither offers USB charging. However, the D3X excels in two key aspects.

Firstly, the D3X provides two memory card slots, granting more storage capacity and flexibility. It also accepts UDMA cards, allowing for faster data transfer. Secondly, the D3X boasts a remarkable battery life of 4400 shots, powered by the EN-EL4a battery. This significantly surpasses the D300, which offers 1000 shots using the EN-EL3e battery.

The D300 has no clear advantages in storage and battery. Consequently, the D3X proves to be the superior choice regarding storage capacity, memory card compatibility, and battery life, making it a more reliable option for extended shooting sessions.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
43%
87%
Memory Card
Compact Flash (Type I or II)
Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL3e
EN-EL4a
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1,000 shots
4,400 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
67%
88%
Portrait (Color Depth)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.'
22.1 bits
24.7 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.'
12 EVs
13.7 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better'
679
1992
Scores

Nikon D300 vs D3X – Our Verdict

Nikon D300 vs D3X Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D300 or the Nikon D3X:

User Scores
B&H photo video
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