Nikon D3400 vs D7100 Comparison
Nikon D3400
Nikon D7100
Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Nikon | Nikon | |
Model | D3400 | D7100 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2013 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 17, 2016 | February 21, 2013 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D7100 emerges as the winner with a score of 65/100, while the Nikon D3400 scores 61/100. Both cameras are DSLRs and were released in 2013 and 2016, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the D7100 measuring 136 x 107 x 76mm and the D3400 at 124 x 98 x 76mm.
The D7100 outperforms the D3400 with its higher score, which may justify its higher launch price of $1200 compared to the D3400’s $650. However, the D3400 has the advantage of being lighter, weighing only 445g, compared to the D7100’s 765g.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D7100 is the superior camera in terms of performance, but the Nikon D3400 offers a more lightweight and budget-friendly option for those prioritizing these aspects.
Nikon D3400 vs D7100 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D7100 wins the optics comparison with a score of 67/100, slightly edging out the Nikon D3400’s score of 65/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 24-megapixel CMOS sensor, APS-C sensor size, Nikon F DX lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.
The D7100’s superior optics score is due to its faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second compared to the D3400’s 5 frames per second, as well as its Expeed 3 processor. While the D3400 has a marginally higher DXOMARK sensor score of 86 compared to the D7100’s 83, the D7100’s overall performance in optics is still better, thanks to its faster shooting speed and processor.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3400 has a slightly higher megapixel count of 24.2 compared to the D7100’s 24.1, as well as a more advanced Expeed 4 processor. This means the D3400 may provide marginally better image quality and processing capabilities, despite its lower optics score.
Considering each point, the Nikon D7100 is the superior camera in terms of optics due to its faster shooting speed and reliable Expeed 3 processor. However, the Nikon D3400 does have some advantages in image quality and processing with its higher megapixel count and more advanced Expeed 4 processor. Despite these differences, both cameras are solid choices for photographers, with the D7100 being better suited for those who prioritize faster shooting speeds and the D3400 for those who value image quality and processing capabilities.
|
Optics
|
Nikon D3400
|
Nikon D7100
|
|
|
|
|
||
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 24.1 MP | |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | 15.6 x 23.5 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 | 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 | 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 4 | Expeed 3 | |
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. | 25,600 | 6,400 | |
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 | 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/ 8000 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 | 51 | |
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 D3400 vs D7100 Video Performance
The Nikon D7100 emerges as the winner in the video capabilities comparison, with a score of 57/100, which is just 1 point higher than the Nikon D3400’s score of 56/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, including Full HD max video resolution and max video dimensions of 1920 x 1080.
The D7100 outperforms the D3400 in a couple of aspects. First, it has time-lapse functionality built-in, which allows for creative video capturing without the need for additional software or accessories. This feature is absent in the D3400. This advantage makes the D7100 more versatile for those who enjoy experimenting with time-lapse photography in their videos.
On the other hand, the D3400 does have a slight edge over the D7100 in terms of max video frame rate. The D3400 can achieve 60fps, while the D7100 is limited to 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother motion capture and can be particularly beneficial for recording fast action scenes or sports events.
Considering the above points, both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses in the video department. The D7100 is the better choice for those who appreciate built-in time-lapse functionality, while the D3400 is more suitable for users who prioritize higher frame rates for smooth motion capture. However, it is important to note that the difference in video capabilities between these two cameras is minimal, with only a 1 point difference in their video scores.
|
Video
|
Nikon D3400
|
Nikon D7100
|
|
|
|
|
||
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 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 | 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 | MOV |
Nikon D3400 vs D7100 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D7100 wins in the features category with a score of 59/100, while the Nikon D3400 scores 54/100. Both cameras share some common specs, such as a 3-inch screen size, no touchscreen, no flip screen, and no GPS. However, there are differences that make the D7100 a better choice in terms of features.
The D7100 has a higher screen resolution at 1,228,800 dots, compared to the D3400’s 921,000 dots. This results in a sharper and clearer display, making it easier to review photos and navigate through menus. The D7100 also has Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing users to transfer images and control the camera remotely via a smartphone or tablet. This feature is lacking in the D3400.
On the other hand, the D3400 has Bluetooth connectivity, which the D7100 does not. This enables the D3400 to maintain a constant connection with a smart device for seamless photo sharing and camera control. However, this advantage may not be significant for some users, as Wi-Fi offers similar functionality.
In conclusion, the Nikon D7100’s higher feature score is due to its better screen resolution and Wi-Fi capabilities. The D3400’s Bluetooth connectivity is its main advantage, but it may not be enough to sway users who prioritize screen quality and Wi-Fi. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences.
|
Features
|
Nikon D3400
|
Nikon D7100
|
|
|
|
|
||
Built-in 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" |  3.2" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 1,228,800 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 D3400 vs D7100 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D7100 surpasses the Nikon D3400 in storage and battery with a score of 76/100 compared to the D3400’s score of 45/100. Both cameras share common specifications in this aspect, such as accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, and lacking USB charging capabilities.
The D7100 excels with its two memory card slots, providing more storage options and flexibility for photographers. This additional slot allows for increased memory capacity and organization of files while shooting. On the other hand, the D3400 has a longer battery life of 1200 shots, compared to the D7100’s battery life of 950 shots. This advantage in battery life allows for extended shooting sessions without needing to replace the battery.
Although the D3400 has a superior battery life, the D7100’s dual memory card slots make it the better option for storage capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on the user’s preferences and priorities, whether they value additional storage options or longer battery life.
|
Storage and Battery
|
Nikon D3400
|
Nikon D7100
|
|
|
|
|
||
Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
|---|---|---|---|
Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL14a | EN-EL15 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 1,200 shots | 950 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
|
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D3400
|
Nikon D7100
|
|
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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.' | 24.8 bits | 24.2 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.' | 13.9 EVs | 13.7 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' | 1192 | 1256 |
|
Scores
|
Nikon D3400
|
Nikon D7100
|
Nikon D3400 vs D7100 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D3400 or the Nikon D7100:
|
User Scores
|
Nikon D3400
|
Nikon D7100
|
|
B&H photo video |
|---|