Nikon D5100 vs D7000 Comparison
Nikon D5100
Nikon D7000
Price | |||
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Brand | Nikon | Nikon | |
Model | D5100 | D7000 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2011 | 2010 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | April 05, 2011 | September 15, 2010 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D7000 comes out ahead with a score of 54, while the Nikon D5100 scores 49. Both cameras are DSLR models announced in 2010 and 2011, respectively. They share similarities such as camera type and size, with the D7000 measuring 132 x 105 x 77mm and the D5100 at 128 x 97 x 79mm.
The D7000 excels with a higher score, offering better performance and features. However, the D5100 has its advantages, like being lighter at 560g compared to the D7000’s 780g. This makes the D5100 more convenient for travel or extended shooting sessions.
Ultimately, the Nikon D7000 is the superior camera due to its better performance, but the Nikon D5100 is a viable alternative for those seeking a more affordable and lightweight option.
Nikon D5100 vs D7000 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D7000 prevails in optics with a score of 55/100, while the Nikon D5100 trails closely behind at 52/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as the 16.2-megapixel count, CMOS sensor type, Expeed 2 processor, 80 DXOMARK score for the sensor, APS-C sensor size, and absence of image stabilization. Moreover, the Nikon D5100 has a Nikon F DX lens mount, while the D7000 has a Nikon F lens mount.
The D7000 outperforms the D5100 with its faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second, compared to the D5100’s 4 frames per second. This advantage enables the D7000 to capture fast-moving subjects and action shots more effectively. Additionally, the Nikon F lens mount on the D7000 offers greater compatibility with a wider range of lenses, providing users with more options to enhance their photography experience.
On the other hand, the D5100 does not surpass the D7000 in any specific optical aspect. However, its slightly lower score and similar specifications imply that the D5100 still delivers quality performance and could be a suitable choice for those who prioritize affordability or have specific needs that the D7000 does not address.
Taking into account the respective scores and specifications, the Nikon D7000 stands out as the superior option in terms of optics, particularly due to its faster shooting speed and broader lens compatibility. While the Nikon D5100 does not outshine the D7000, it remains a viable alternative for those seeking a more budget-friendly option without compromising too much on performance.
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Optics
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Nikon D5100
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Nikon D7000
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16.2 MP | 16.2 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 | 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. | 15.6 x 23.6 mm | 15.6 x 23.6 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 | 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 | |
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 2 | |
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 | 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 | 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 (pentaprism) |
Nikon D5100 vs D7000 Video Performance
The Nikon D7000 and D5100 are close competitors in video performance. both models offer a solid option for everyday video use.
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Video
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Nikon D5100
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Nikon D7000
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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. | 30 p | 24 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. | MPEG-4, MOV, H.264 | MOV |
Nikon D5100 vs D7000 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D7000 wins the features comparison with a score of 54/100, while the Nikon D5100 scores 41/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size and a screen resolution of 921,000 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen or GPS, and both lack Bluetooth connectivity.
The Nikon D7000 surpasses the D5100 in certain aspects. The most notable advantage is the presence of Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows for easier transfer of photos and remote control of the camera. This feature is absent in the D5100, making the D7000 more convenient for users who value wireless connectivity.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5100 does have an edge in one area: the flip screen. This feature enables users to capture images from various angles, making it more versatile in shooting situations where a fixed screen may be limiting. However, this advantage does not outweigh the benefits offered by the D7000’s Wi-Fi connectivity.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D7000 proves to be the superior camera when it comes to features. The Wi-Fi connectivity adds a level of convenience and functionality that the D5100 lacks. While the D5100’s flip screen is a useful feature, it is not enough to overcome the D7000’s overall advantage in this comparison. Therefore, the Nikon D7000 is the recommended choice for users seeking a camera with better features.
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Features
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Nikon D5100
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Nikon D7000
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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 | 921,000 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 D7000 Storage and Battery
The D5100 outperforms the D7000 in battery life, with a capacity for 2200 shots using an EN-EL14 battery. In contrast, the D7000 only supports 1050 shots with its EN-EL15 battery. This significant difference in battery life makes the D5100 a more reliable option for extended shooting sessions.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon D5100
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Nikon D7000
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL14 | EN-EL15 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 2,200 shots | 1,050 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D5100
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Nikon D7000
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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 | 23.5 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 | 13.9 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 | 1167 |
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Scores
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Nikon D5100
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Nikon D7000
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Nikon D5100 vs D7000 – Our Verdict
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 D7000:
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User Scores
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Nikon D5100
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Nikon D7000
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B&H photo video |
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