Nikon D5100 vs D5600 Comparison
Nikon D5100
Nikon D5600
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Brand | Nikon | Nikon | |
Model | D5100 | D5600 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2011 | 2016 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | April 05, 2011 | November 10, 2016 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
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The Nikon D5600 takes the lead with a score of 66/100, while the Nikon D5100 scores 49/100. Both cameras are DSLR models and were released in 2011 and 2016, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the D5600 being slightly smaller at 124 x 97 x 70mm compared to the D5100’s 128 x 97 x 79mm.
The D5600 outperforms the D5100 in several aspects, including a lighter weight of 465g compared to 560g. It also has a lower launch price of $700, compared to the D5100’s $799. These factors contribute to the D5600’s higher score and make it a more appealing choice for consumers.
The D5100, however, may still have some advantages for certain users, depending on their specific needs and preferences. Nonetheless, the Nikon D5600 stands out as the winner in this comparison due to its better overall specifications and value for money.
Nikon D5100 vs D5600 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D5600 outperforms the Nikon D5100 in optics with a score of 65/100 compared to 52/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, Nikon F DX lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.
The D5600 excels in several aspects, including a higher megapixel count of 24.2, which allows for greater image detail and larger prints. Additionally, the D5600 has a faster shooting speed of 5 frames per second, enabling photographers to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. The improved Expeed 4 processor in the D5600 ensures faster image processing and better overall performance. Lastly, the D5600 has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 84, indicating superior image quality and low-light performance.
On the other hand, the D5100 has a lower megapixel count of 16.2 and a slower shooting speed of 4 frames per second. Its Expeed 2 processor is not as advanced as the D5600’s Expeed 4, which may affect overall camera performance. Despite these drawbacks, the D5100 still provides satisfactory image quality with a DXOMARK score of 80 for its sensor.
Considering the advantages of the D5600, it is the superior option for those seeking better optics and overall performance. The higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, and more advanced processor contribute to its higher score and better image quality. While the D5100 may suffice for casual photographers, the D5600 is a more capable and versatile choice for those looking to elevate their photography skills.
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Optics
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Nikon D5100
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Nikon D5600
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16.2 MP | 24.2 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. | 4928 x 3264 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 23.6 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. | 4 fps | 5 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 2 | Expeed 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. |  3:2 | 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. | 6,400 | 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 | 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 | 102400 | |
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 | 39 | |
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 (pentamirror) |
Nikon D5100 vs D5600 Video Performance
When comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon D5100 and the Nikon D5600, it is important to note that the Nikon D5100 does not have video functionality. This means that the camera is not suitable for those who require video recording capabilities in their photography equipment. On the other hand, the Nikon D5600 does offer video features, making it a better option for those interested in capturing both still images and video footage.
The Nikon D5600 has a video score of 70 out of 100, which reflects its solid performance in this area. The camera is capable of recording Full HD video with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Additionally, the D5600 can capture video at a maximum frame rate of 60 frames per second, ensuring smooth and high-quality footage. One notable feature of the D5600 is its built-in time-lapse functionality, which allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos with ease.
Taking into account these factors, the Nikon D5600 is the clear choice for those who require video capabilities in their camera. The lack of video functionality in the Nikon D5100 makes it a less versatile option, while the D5600’s video features cater to a wider range of photography and videography needs. Therefore, the Nikon D5600 is the superior choice for those who value both still image and video performance in their camera.
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Video
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Nikon D5100
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Nikon D5600
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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. | N/A |  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. | N/A | 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. | N/A | 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. | N/A | MOV |
Nikon D5100 vs D5600 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D5600 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 72/100, while the Nikon D5100 scores 41/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch (D5100) and 3.2-inch (D5600) screen size, flip screen functionality, and the absence of GPS.
The Nikon D5600 surpasses the D5100 in several aspects. It boasts a higher screen resolution of 1,037,000 dots compared to the D5100’s 921,000 dots, enhancing image preview and menu navigation. The D5600 also includes a touchscreen, making it more user-friendly and efficient for adjusting settings and reviewing images. Furthermore, the D5600 has built-in WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities, enabling easy and quick sharing of photos and videos, as well as remote camera control.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5100 does not offer any significant advantages over the D5600. It lacks a touchscreen, WIFI, and Bluetooth, making it less convenient for modern photographers who value connectivity and ease of use.
Based on these comparisons, the Nikon D5600 clearly outperforms the Nikon D5100 in terms of features. With a higher screen resolution, touchscreen, and connectivity options, the D5600 caters to the needs of today’s photographers, while the D5100 falls short in offering those essential features. Therefore, the Nikon D5600 is the superior choice for photographers seeking advanced functionality and convenience in their camera.
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Features
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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" |  3.2" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 1,037,000 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 D5100 vs D5600 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D5100 outperforms the Nikon D5600 in storage and battery with a score of 51/100, compared to the D5600’s 43/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as having one memory card slot and accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the D5600 is compatible with faster UHS-I cards.
The D5100 surpasses the D5600 in battery life, offering 2200 shots per charge, while the D5600 only provides 970 shots. Both cameras use similar battery types, with the D5100 using an EN-EL14 and the D5600 using an EN-EL14a. Neither camera supports USB charging.
Although the D5100 has a longer battery life, the D5600’s compatibility with UHS-I memory cards allows for faster data transfer. This feature may be more important to some users, depending on their shooting needs and preferences.
Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Nikon D5100 proves to be a better choice due to its longer battery life. However, the Nikon D5600 offers improved memory card compatibility, which could be a deciding factor for specific users.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL14 | EN-EL14a | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 2,200 shots | 970 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D5100
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Nikon D5600
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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.' | 23.5 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.' | 13.6 EVs | 14 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' | 1183 | 1306 |
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Scores
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Nikon D5100
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Nikon D5600
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Alternatives to the Nikon D5100 and D5600
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D5100 or the Nikon D5600:
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User Scores
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Nikon D5100
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Nikon D5600
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B&H photo video |
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