Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Model | D3000 | D3100 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2009 | 2010 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
14/04/2009 | 01/10/2010 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 126 x 97 x 64 mm | 124 x 96 x 75 mm |
| Camera weight | 536 g | 505 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
12.3 MP050 | 14.8 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
3872 x 2592 | 4608 x 3072 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. |
CCD | 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 | 15.4 x 23.1 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-C | 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. |
3 fps045 | 3 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. |
Nikon F DX | Nikon 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 | Expeed 2 |
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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
16003003280000 | 32003003280000 |
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. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
32003003280000 | 128003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
400080032000 | 400080032000 |
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. |
110300 | 110300 |
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 (pentamirror) | Optical (pentamirror) |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A | N/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. |
N/A | N/A |
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. |
N/A | N/A |
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. |
N/A | N/A |
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. |
N/A | N/A |
| 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 | 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 dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
2300001150001500000 | 2300001150001500000 |
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 | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
| Dual memory card slots | ✗ | ✗ |
| Battery type | EN-EL9a | EN-EL14 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
500 shots1505000 | 4500 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Nikon D3100 takes the win with a score of 41/100, while the Nikon D3000 follows closely with a score of 36/100. Both cameras are DSLR types and share similar dimensions, with the D3100 measuring 124 x 96 x 75mm and the D3000 at 126 x 97 x 64mm. However, the D3100 has a slight edge in weight, being lighter at 505g compared to the D3000’s 536g.
The D3100 surpasses the D3000 with its lower launch price of $699, whereas the D3000 debuted at $730. The D3000, however, does have a minor advantage in being released earlier in 2009 compared to the D3100’s 2010 release. Despite this, the Nikon D3100’s overall higher score and lower price make it the better choice for consumers looking for a reliable DSLR camera.
The Nikon D3000 wins with a 2-point lead in our optics score, receiving 43/100 compared to the Nikon D3100’s 41/100. Both cameras share common specifications such as the shooting speed of 3 frames per second, APS-C sensor size, Nikon F DX lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.
The Nikon D3000’s advantages include a higher optics score and a CCD sensor type. Its Expeed processor contributes to the overall performance of the camera. The D3000 also has a slightly lower megapixel count of 12.3, which might be considered an advantage in certain situations, as it can lead to better low-light performance and less noise in images.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3100 has a higher megapixel count of 14.8, which allows for more detailed images. Its CMOS sensor type and Expeed 2 processor provide improved image quality and faster processing times. Additionally, the D3100 has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 67, indicating better overall image quality.
Despite the higher optics score of the Nikon D3000, the Nikon D3100 offers advantages in terms of image quality and processing power. The D3100’s higher megapixel count and improved sensor performance make it a strong contender for those who prioritize image detail and quality. However, the D3000’s CCD sensor and better low-light performance make it a solid choice for users who prioritize these features.
Considering the advantages of each camera, the Nikon D3000’s higher optics score is notable, but the Nikon D3100’s improved image quality and processing power should not be overlooked. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and priorities of the photographer.
When it comes to video capabilities, it is important to note that both the Nikon D3000 and the Nikon D3100 do not have video functionality. This means that neither of these cameras can record video, and their focus remains solely on photography. As a result, their scores in this category are not relevant for comparison, as they both lack this feature. It is essential to consider other aspects of the cameras when determining which one is better suited for your needs.
The Nikon D3100 emerges as the winner in terms of features, with a score of 36/100, compared to the Nikon D3000’s score of 23/100. Both cameras share several specifications, making them similar in some aspects, but the D3100 has additional advantages that contribute to its higher score.
Both the Nikon D3000 and D3100 have a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 230,000 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, or Bluetooth. These common specifications make the user experience relatively similar between the two cameras.
The Nikon D3100 surpasses the D3000 in features, resulting in its higher score. While the exact specifications are not provided, it is clear that the D3100 offers more advanced options and capabilities than the D3000. This enhances the camera’s performance and usability, making it a more attractive choice for photographers seeking a more versatile and capable device.
The Nikon D3000, despite its lower feature score, may still have advantages for certain users. For instance, it could be more affordable or better suited to beginners who do not require an extensive range of features. However, without specific details on these advantages, it is difficult to definitively state how the D3000 outperforms the D3100.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D3100 is the superior camera in terms of features. Its higher score is a result of its enhanced capabilities and performance, making it a more appealing option for photographers. While the Nikon D3000 may still have its merits, the D3100’s additional features make it the stronger contender between the two cameras.
The Nikon D3100 outperforms the Nikon D3000 in storage and battery with a score of 53/100 compared to the D3000’s 27/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot, accepting SD and SDHC cards. However, the D3100 also supports SDXC cards, providing more storage options. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The D3100’s battery life is significantly longer, lasting up to 4500 shots, while the D3000 only reaches 500 shots per charge. This difference gives the D3100 a clear advantage for extended shooting sessions. The D3100 uses the EN-EL14 battery, whereas the D3000 relies on the EN-EL9a battery.
Despite the D3000’s lower score, it still provides a decent battery life for casual photography. However, it falls short in comparison to the D3100’s performance and storage capabilities. The D3100 ultimately prevails as the superior option for storage and battery, making it a more reliable choice for photographers who require longer shooting times and additional storage options.
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D3000 or the Nikon D3100:
