Nikon D3300 vs Sony a6000 Comparison
Nikon D3300
Sony a6000
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | D3300 | a6000 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 07, 2014 | February 12, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a6000 outperforms the Nikon D3300 by a slight margin, scoring 57/100 compared to the D3300’s 55/100. Both cameras were released in 2014, with the D3300 launching at $650 and the a6000 at $799. They share some common specifications, such as their release year and announcement dates.
The Sony a6000 has the advantage of being a mirrorless camera, with a smaller size (120 x 67 x 45mm) and lighter weight (344g / 0.76lbs). This makes it more portable and convenient for on-the-go photography.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3300 is a DSLR camera, with a larger size (124 x 98 x 76mm) and heavier weight (430g / 0.95lbs). However, it offers a more affordable price point at launch, which might be an appealing factor for budget-conscious photographers.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a6000 may be the better option for those seeking a lightweight and compact camera, while the Nikon D3300 could be more suitable for those prioritizing affordability.
Nikon D3300 vs Sony a6000 Overview and Optics
The Sony a6000 wins in the optics comparison with a score of 67/100, while the Nikon D3300 scores 64/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 24-megapixel CMOS sensor, an APS-C sensor size, and no image stabilization. Additionally, they both have a DXOMARK sensor score of 82.
The Sony a6000 outperforms the Nikon D3300 in shooting speed and processor. With 11 frames per second (fps), the a6000 is faster than the D3300’s 5 fps. This makes the a6000 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. Furthermore, the Sony a6000 is equipped with a Bionz X processor, which provides better image processing and faster performance compared to the Nikon D3300’s Expeed 4 processor.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3300 has a Nikon F DX lens mount, which offers a wider range of compatible lenses. This gives users more options for various photography styles and situations. However, the Sony a6000’s E-mount lenses are more compact and lighter, making it more convenient for travel and everyday use.
In terms of optics, the Sony a6000 has a slight edge over the Nikon D3300 due to its faster shooting speed and better processor. However, the Nikon D3300 offers more lens options with its lens mount. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the user’s priorities and preferences.
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Optics
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Nikon D3300
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Sony a6000
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 24.3 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 | 6000 x 4000 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 | 15.6 x 23.5 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C | APS-C | |
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 | 11 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 | Sony E | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Expeed 4 | Bionz X | |
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. | 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 | 25,600 | |
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. | 25600 | 25600 | |
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/ 4000 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 | 179 | |
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) | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 1,440,000 dots |
Nikon D3300 vs Sony a6000 Video Performance
The Nikon D3300 and the Sony a6000 both have a video score of 56/100, indicating that they have similar video capabilities. Both cameras share common specifications, such as Full HD video resolution, max video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, and a max video frame rate of 60fps. Neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite having the same video score, there are some differences between these two cameras. The Nikon D3300 excels in certain areas, such as its compatibility with a wider range of lenses, allowing for more creative flexibility and better overall image quality. Additionally, the D3300 has a slightly better battery life, which can be advantageous for extended video shoots.
On the other hand, the Sony a6000 has its own benefits in comparison to the Nikon D3300. The a6000 features a faster autofocus system, which can be crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects in video. Additionally, the a6000 has a more compact and lightweight design, making it more convenient for travel and handheld video shooting.
Taking these factors into consideration, it is clear that both the Nikon D3300 and the Sony a6000 have their own strengths and weaknesses in terms of video capabilities. While the D3300 boasts better lens compatibility and battery life, the a6000 has a faster autofocus system and a more portable design. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific video requirements and preferences of the user.
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Video
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Nikon D3300
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Sony a6000
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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. |  Full HD | Full HD | |
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 | 60 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 Sony a6000 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D3300 and Sony a6000 both have a feature score of 41/100. Despite having the same score, each camera has its strengths and weaknesses in terms of features.
Both cameras share several common specifications. They each have a 3-inch screen and similar screen resolution, with the Nikon D3300 at 921,000 dots and the Sony a6000 at 921,600 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen, GPS, or Bluetooth capabilities.
The Sony a6000 has two advantages over the Nikon D3300. It is equipped with a flip screen, which allows for more flexibility when composing shots, especially in challenging angles or when capturing self-portraits. Additionally, the Sony a6000 has built-in Wi-Fi, enabling users to easily transfer images to other devices and share them online.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3300 does not offer any features that surpass the Sony a6000. It lacks both a flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity, making it less versatile and convenient for users who prioritize these features.
In comparing the Nikon D3300 and Sony a6000, both cameras have identical feature scores, but the Sony a6000 holds an advantage with its flip screen and Wi-Fi capabilities. These additional features make the Sony a6000 a more appealing option for users who value convenience and flexibility in their camera’s features. The Nikon D3300, while not offering any unique advantages, remains a solid choice for those who do not require a flip screen or Wi-Fi connectivity in their camera.
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Features
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Nikon D3300
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Sony a6000
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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 |  3" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 921,600 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 Sony a6000 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D3300 outperforms the Sony a6000 in storage and battery, scoring 32 points compared to the Sony’s 21 points. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Sony a6000 also accepts Memory Stick Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo cards, offering more storage options.
The Nikon D3300 has a significant advantage in battery life, providing 700 shots per charge compared to the Sony a6000’s 360 shots. The D3300 uses an EN-EL14a battery, while the a6000 uses an NP-FW50 battery. Neither camera offers USB charging.
Despite the Sony a6000’s additional storage compatibility, the Nikon D3300’s superior battery life makes it the better option for extended shooting sessions. Users who prioritize battery life should choose the Nikon D3300, while those who value diverse storage options may prefer the Sony a6000.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon D3300
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Sony a6000
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL14a | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 700 shots | 360 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D3300
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Sony a6000
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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 | 24.1 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 | 13.1 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 | 1347 |
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Scores
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Nikon D3300
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Sony a6000
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Alternatives to the Nikon D3300 and Sony a6000
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 Sony a6000:
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User Scores
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Nikon D3300
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Sony a6000
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B&H photo video |
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