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Nikon D3200 vs Sony a6000 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Nikon D3200

Nikon D3200 camera image
54%

Sony a6000

sony a6000
Winner!
57%
Nikon D3200
vs
Sony a6000
Price
Brand
Nikon
Sony
Model
D3200
a6000
Released
2012
2014
Announcement Date
April 19, 2012
February 12, 2014
Camera Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a6000 outperforms the Nikon D3200 with a score of 57/100 compared to 54/100. Both cameras were released in the early 2010s, with the D3200 in 2012 and the a6000 in 2014. They also share a similar launch price, with the D3200 at $699 and the a6000 at $799.

The Sony a6000 excels due to its mirrorless design, making it lighter at 344g and more compact with dimensions of 120 x 67 x 45mm. In contrast, the Nikon D3200, a DSLR camera, weighs 505g and has a larger size of 125 x 96 x 77mm.

While the Nikon D3200 may not be as portable, it still offers quality performance as a DSLR. Both cameras cater to different preferences and needs, so it’s essential to consider your requirements before choosing between them.

Nikon D3200 vs Sony a6000 Overview and Optics

The Sony a6000 wins the optics comparison with a score of 67/100, while the Nikon D3200 scores 63/100. Both cameras share similarities in their specifications, such as 24-megapixel resolution, CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, and the lack of image stabilization. They also have similar DXOMARK scores for their sensors, with the Sony a6000 at 82 and the Nikon D3200 at 81.

The Sony a6000 excels in a few key areas. It has a slightly higher resolution at 24.3 megapixels compared to the Nikon D3200’s 24.2 megapixels. The Sony a6000 also has a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second, while the Nikon D3200 shoots at 4 frames per second. Additionally, the Sony a6000 features the Bionz X processor, which is known for its processing speed and image quality.

The Nikon D3200 has some advantages as well. It uses the Nikon F DX lens mount, which is compatible with a wide range of Nikon lenses. This provides users with more lens options and flexibility when shooting. However, the Sony a6000 uses the Sony E lens mount, which may have fewer compatible lenses.

Based on the specifications and scores, the Sony a6000 is the superior camera in terms of optics. Its higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and advanced processor give it an edge over the Nikon D3200. However, the Nikon D3200’s lens mount compatibility may be an important consideration for some users. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on individual preferences and priorities.

Optics
Optics
63%
67%
Megapixels
24.2 MP
24.3 MP
Image Resolution
6016 x 4000 px
6000 x 4000 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
15.4 x 23.2 mm
15.6 x 23.5 mm
Sensor Format
APS-C
APS-C
Frame Rate
4 fps
11 fps
Lens Mount
Nikon F DX
Sony E
Image Processor
Expeed 3
Bionz X
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
6,400
25,600
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
100
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
12800
25600
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 4000 s
1/ 4000 s
Autofocus Points
11
179
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentamirror)
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
N/A
1,440,000 dots

Nikon D3200 vs Sony a6000 Video Performance

The Sony a6000 outperforms the Nikon D3200 in video capabilities with a score of 56/100, a 13-point advantage over the Nikon D3200’s score of 43/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as Full HD max video resolution and max video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, they differ in max video frame rate and other aspects.

The Sony a6000 excels with its higher max video frame rate of 60fps, double the Nikon D3200’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother video capture, especially in fast-moving scenes or action shots. Additionally, the a6000’s superior score indicates better overall video performance.

The Nikon D3200, despite its lower score, still offers Full HD video recording and the same max video dimensions as the Sony a6000. However, its lower max video frame rate of 30fps may result in less smooth video capture, particularly in fast-paced situations. Both cameras lack built-in time-lapse functionality.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Sony a6000 is the better choice for videographers seeking smoother video capture and overall superior video performance. The Nikon D3200, while not as strong in video capabilities, still provides Full HD video recording, making it a viable option for those who prioritize other aspects of a camera, such as photography features.

Video
Video
43%
56%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
Full HD
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
1920 x 1080 px
Max Video Frame Rate
30 p
60 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MPEG-4

Nikon D3200 vs Sony a6000 Features and Benefits

The Sony a6000 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 54/100, while the Nikon D3200 lags behind at 41/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size and no touchscreen capability. Neither camera offers GPS or Bluetooth functionality.

The Sony a6000 outperforms the Nikon D3200 in several aspects. Firstly, it has a slightly higher screen resolution at 921,600 dots compared to the Nikon D3200’s 921,000 dots. The Sony a6000 also has a flip screen, allowing for more versatile shooting angles and easier self-portraits. Additionally, the Sony a6000 provides WIFI connectivity, enabling effortless photo sharing and remote camera control.

On the other hand, the Nikon D3200 does not offer any significant advantages over the Sony a6000. Both cameras lack touchscreen, GPS, and Bluetooth features, and the Nikon D3200’s screen resolution is only marginally lower than the Sony a6000’s. The absence of a flip screen and WIFI connectivity on the Nikon D3200 further contribute to its lower feature score.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a6000 clearly has the upper hand in terms of features. Its flip screen, higher screen resolution, and WIFI connectivity make it a more appealing choice for photographers seeking versatility and convenience. The Nikon D3200, while sharing some basic specifications with the Sony a6000, does not provide any notable advantages to sway potential buyers in its favor.

Features
Features
41%
41%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3"
3"
Screen Resolution
921,000 dots
921,600 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Nikon D3200 vs Sony a6000 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D3200 outperforms the Sony a6000 in storage and battery with a score of 27/100 compared to the Sony’s 21/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot, with the D3200 accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible) cards and the a6000 taking SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, as well as Memory Stick Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.

The D3200’s advantage lies in its battery life, providing 540 shots per charge with its EN-EL14 battery, while the a6000’s NP-FW50 battery lasts for 360 shots. The Sony a6000’s additional support for Memory Stick Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards could be considered a slight advantage for some users.

In terms of storage and battery, the Nikon D3200 is the better choice due to its longer battery life. The Sony a6000’s compatibility with Memory Stick Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards is a minor advantage, but not enough to outweigh the D3200’s superior battery performance.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
27%
21%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL14
NP-FW50
Battery Life
540 shots
360 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
81%
82%
Portrait (Color Depth)
24.1 bits
24.1 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
13.2 EVs
13.1 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
1131
1347
Scores

Nikon D3200 vs Sony a6000 – Our Verdict

Nikon D3200 vs Sony a6000 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D3200 or the Sony a6000:

User Scores
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