Nikon D3300 vs Pentax K-50 Comparison
Nikon D3300
Pentax K-50
Price | |||
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Brand | Nikon | Pentax | |
Model | D3300 | K-50 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2013 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 07, 2014 | June 12, 2013 | |
Camera Type | |||
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Pentax K-50 edges out the Nikon D3300 with a score of 57/100 compared to the D3300’s 55/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2013 and 2014 respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the K-50 measuring 130 x 97 x 71mm and the D3300 at 124 x 98 x 76mm.
The Pentax K-50 has a lower launch price of $599, while the Nikon D3300 came in at $650. The K-50’s lower price and higher score make it a better option for potential buyers. However, the Nikon D3300 has a significant advantage in weight, coming in at 430g compared to the K-50’s 650g. This makes the D3300 a more portable option for photographers on the go.
Taking into account the scores, prices, and weight differences, the Pentax K-50 appears to be a better value for the money, while the Nikon D3300 offers greater portability.
Nikon D3300 vs Pentax K-50 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D3300 outperforms the Pentax K-50 in optics with a score of 64/100 compared to the K-50’s 62/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, an APS-C sensor size, and similar lens mounts (Nikon F DX for the D3300 and Pentax KAF for the K-50).
The Nikon D3300 boasts a higher megapixel count at 24.2, allowing for more detailed images, compared to the Pentax K-50’s 16.28 megapixels. Additionally, the D3300 has a superior processor, Expeed 4, which contributes to better image quality and faster processing times. The D3300 also has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 82, indicating better overall image quality.
On the other hand, the Pentax K-50 offers a faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second, which is beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects. The K-50 also features image stabilization, providing an advantage when shooting handheld or in low light conditions.
Considering these factors, the Nikon D3300’s higher megapixel count, better processor, and superior DXOMARK sensor score make it the more suitable choice for photographers seeking better image quality. However, the Pentax K-50’s faster shooting speed and image stabilization may appeal to those who prioritize capturing action shots or shooting in challenging conditions.
In comparing the optics of the Nikon D3300 and the Pentax K-50, the D3300 emerges as the winner due to its superior image quality, while the K-50 offers advantages in speed and stability.
Optics
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Nikon D3300
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Pentax K-50
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 16.28 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6000 x 4000 px | 4928 x 3264 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. | 15.4 x 23.2 mm | 15.7 x 23.7 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |||
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 5 fps | 6 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 | Pentax KAF | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Expeed 4 | Prime M | |
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. | |||
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 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. | 12,800 | 51,200 | |
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 | 100 | |
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. | 25600 | 51200 | |
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/ 4000 s | 1/ 6000 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. | 11 | 11 | |
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 (pentamirror) | Optical (pentaprism) |
Nikon D3300 vs Pentax K-50 Video Performance
The Pentax K-50 slightly outperforms the Nikon D3300 in video capabilities, scoring 57/100 compared to the D3300’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a Full HD maximum video resolution and 1920 x 1080 maximum video dimensions.
The Pentax K-50 proves superior with its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Nikon D3300 lacks. This feature allows photographers to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software, making it a valuable asset for those who enjoy capturing the passage of time in their work.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3300 offers a higher maximum video frame rate at 60fps, compared to the Pentax K-50’s 30fps. This advantage enables the D3300 to capture smoother and more detailed video footage, especially in fast-paced or action-packed scenes. This higher frame rate can be particularly beneficial for sports or wildlife videographers who require crisp, fluid motion in their videos.
While the Pentax K-50 has the edge with its time-lapse functionality, the Nikon D3300 excels in capturing smoother video footage due to its higher frame rate. Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, ultimately catering to different videography preferences and needs. Prospective buyers should consider which features are most important to them when deciding between these two capable cameras.
Video
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Nikon D3300
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Pentax K-50
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |||
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. | |||
Max Video Dimensions 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 1080 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
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 p | 30 p | |
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. | |||
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. | MOV | MPEG-4 |
Nikon D3300 vs Pentax K-50 Features and Benefits
The Pentax K-50 emerges as the winner in the features category, with a score of 54 out of 100, while the Nikon D3300 scores 41 out of 100. Both cameras have certain specifications in common, such as a 3-inch screen size, a screen resolution of 921,000 dots, and the absence of a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth.
The Pentax K-50 has a higher score, which indicates that it has more advanced features than the Nikon D3300. However, it is important to note that this does not necessarily mean that the Pentax K-50 is the better camera overall. The specific features that contribute to its higher score should be carefully considered to determine if they are relevant to the user’s needs.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3300 may have a lower score, but it may excel in other areas such as optics and video quality. In addition, it may offer better value for money, depending on the user’s requirements and budget. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons of each camera’s features and performance before making a decision.
Taking into consideration the features of both cameras, the Pentax K-50 offers a slight advantage in terms of advanced features. However, the Nikon D3300 should not be disregarded, as it may provide better performance in other aspects. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences.
Features
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Nikon D3300
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Pentax K-50
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. | |||
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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 | |||
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 921,000 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 D3300 vs Pentax K-50 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D3300 wins in the storage and battery category with a score of 32/100, while the Pentax K-50 scores 24/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The Nikon D3300 outperforms the Pentax K-50 in battery life, providing 700 shots compared to the K-50’s 410 shots. This advantage stems from the D3300’s battery type, the EN-EL14a, which lasts longer than the K-50’s D-LI109 battery.
On the other hand, the Pentax K-50 does not surpass the Nikon D3300 in any storage or battery-related aspect. The only similarity between the two cameras in this category is the lack of USB charging.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D3300 proves to be the superior choice in terms of storage and battery capabilities. The longer battery life makes it a more reliable option for extended photo sessions, while the Pentax K-50 falls short with a lower battery life and no additional benefits in this category.
Storage and Battery
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Nikon D3300
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Pentax K-50
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots | |||
Battery Type | EN-EL14a | D-LI109 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 700 shots | 410 shots | |
USB Charging |
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D3300
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Pentax K-50
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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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.' | 24.3 bits | 23.7 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.' | 12.8 EVs | 13 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' | 1385 | 1120 |
Scores
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Nikon D3300
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Pentax K-50
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Nikon D3300 vs Pentax K-50 Alternatives
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User Scores
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Nikon D3300
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Pentax K-50
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B&H photo video |
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