CameraReview

Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D5300 — Which Is Better?

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

Nikon D3300
Nikon
Nikon D3300
DSLR · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
55
SCORE
$196.77
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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 D3300D5300
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20142013
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
07/01/201417/10/2013
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 124 x 98 x 76 mm125 x 98 x 76 mm
Camera weight 430 g480 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05024.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006000 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.
15.4 x 23.215.6 x 23.5
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 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.
Nikon F DXNikon 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 4Expeed 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.
128003003280000128003003280000
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.
256003003280000256003003280000
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.
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.
110300390300
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/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.
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.
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"3.2"
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-EL14aEN-EL14a
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
700 shots1505000600 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D5300 takes the lead with a score of 57/100, just 2 points ahead of the Nikon D3300 at 55/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, released in 2013 and 2014, respectively, and share the same camera size of 124 x 98 x 76mm. The D5300, although slightly heavier at 480g, offers a higher overall score due to its superior performance.

The Nikon D3300, with a launch price of $650, is more affordable than the D5300, which was launched at $800. This makes the D3300 a better choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, the D5300’s higher score indicates that it provides better value for the additional cost.

Taking all factors into consideration, the Nikon D5300 is the better camera of the two. While the Nikon D3300 is a more budget-friendly option, the D5300 offers better performance, justifying its higher price and score.

Nikon D3300 vs D5300 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D5300 wins in the optics comparison with a score of 65/100, while the Nikon D3300 scores 64/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as 24.2 megapixels, 5 shooting speed, CMOS sensor type, Expeed 4 processor, APS-C sensor size, Nikon F DX lens mount, and no image stabilization.

The Nikon D5300 has a slightly better performance due to its DXOMARK score of 83 for the sensor, compared to the D3300’s sensor score of 82. This one-point difference contributes to the D5300’s overall better optics score. The higher sensor score means the D5300 can capture images with marginally better quality, making it more suitable for photographers who prioritize image quality.

However, the Nikon D3300 still has its advantages, despite having a lower optics score. It offers the same shooting speed, megapixels, and lens compatibility as the D5300, making it a good option for photographers who do not require the highest sensor score. The Nikon D3300 remains a reliable choice for those looking for a camera with solid performance and similar specifications to the D5300.

Taking into account the slight difference in sensor scores, the Nikon D5300 is the better choice for photographers who prioritize image quality. However, the Nikon D3300 remains a strong contender due to its shared specifications with the D5300, making it a suitable option for those who do not require the highest sensor score.

Nikon D3300 vs D5300 Video Performance

The Nikon D5300 emerges as the winner in the video capabilities comparison with a score of 70, while the Nikon D3300 scores 14 points lower at 56. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of Full HD and video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. They also both offer a maximum video frame rate of 60fps.

The primary advantage of the Nikon D5300 is its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software. The D3300, on the other hand, does not have this built-in feature. This difference alone contributes to the higher score of the D5300 in video capabilities.

While the Nikon D3300 may not have the built-in time-lapse functionality, it still offers the same maximum video resolution, dimensions, and frame rate as the D5300. This means that the D3300 can still produce high-quality videos, but without the added benefit of time-lapse functionality.

Taking all of these factors into consideration, it is clear that the Nikon D5300 is the superior choice for video capabilities due to its built-in time-lapse feature. The Nikon D3300, however, still remains a viable option for those who do not require time-lapse functionality and are more focused on capturing high-quality videos at the same resolution and frame rate as the D5300.

Nikon D3300 vs D5300 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D5300 wins the feature comparison with a score of 46/100, while the Nikon D3300 trails with a score of 41/100. Both cameras share some specifications, like a 3-inch screen size for the D3300 and a 3.2-inch screen size for the D5300. Neither camera has a touchscreen or Bluetooth capabilities.

The D5300 outshines the D3300 in several aspects. The D5300 has a higher screen resolution with 1,037,000 dots, compared to the D3300’s 921,000 dots. This difference results in a more detailed and clear display on the D5300. Additionally, the D5300 has a flip screen, providing more flexibility for shooting in various angles and situations. The D5300 also includes GPS and WIFI capabilities, which make geotagging and transferring photos more convenient.

On the other hand, the D3300 does not offer any superior features compared to the D5300. Its lower score reflects its fewer features and capabilities. The D3300’s lack of a flip screen, GPS, and WIFI make it less versatile and user-friendly than the D5300.

Considering these points, the Nikon D5300 proves to be the better choice among the two cameras, as it offers more advanced features and capabilities than the Nikon D3300. The higher screen resolution, flip screen, GPS, and WIFI make the D5300 a more versatile and convenient option for photographers. While the D3300 may still appeal to some users, the D5300’s additional features make it a more attractive option for those seeking a camera with more advanced capabilities.

Nikon D3300 vs D5300 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D3300 outperforms the Nikon D5300 in the storage and battery category, scoring 32/100 compared to the D5300’s 29/100. Both cameras share some common specifications in this area, including having one memory card slot and accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Additionally, both cameras use the same battery type, EN-EL14a, and neither offers USB charging.

The D3300’s advantage lies in its longer battery life, providing 700 shots per charge compared to the D5300’s 600 shots. This difference makes the D3300 more suitable for extended shooting sessions without needing to replace or recharge the battery.

Though the D5300 falls short in battery life, it does not have any specific advantages in the storage and battery category. The cameras are equal in memory card compatibility and charging options.

In this comparison, the Nikon D3300 emerges as the better choice for storage and battery capabilities due to its longer battery life. The Nikon D5300 does not offer any distinct advantages in this area, making the D3300 a more reliable option for photographers who prioritize battery performance.

Nikon D3300 vs D5300 – Our Verdict

Nikon D3300 vs D5300 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D3300 or the Nikon D5300: