CameraReview

Nikon D5300 vs Nikon D7100 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Nikon D5300
Nikon
Nikon D5300
DSLR · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
57
SCORE
$318.55
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✓ WINNER
Nikon D7100
Nikon
Nikon D7100
DSLR · 24.1 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
65
SCORE
$448.28
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General
Brand NikonNikon
Model D5300D7100
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20132013
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
17/10/201321/02/2013
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 125 x 98 x 76 mm136 x 107 x 76 mm
Camera weight 480 g765 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05024.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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 23.515.6 x 23.5
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
5 fps0456 fps045
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 DXNikon 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 4Expeed 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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
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.
12800300328000064003003280000
Min 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.
1003020010030200
Max 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.
256003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max 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.
400080032000800080032000
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.
390300510300
In-body stabilisation
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)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
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 HDFull HD
Max video format
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 10801920 x 1080
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 fps30 fps
Timelapse 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.
MOVMOV
Features
Builtin 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 LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3.2"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1037000115000150000012288001150001500000
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
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL14aEN-EL15
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
600 shots1505000950 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D7100 outperforms the Nikon D5300 with a score of 65/100 compared to 57/100. Both cameras share similarities, being DSLR cameras released in 2013 with the same depth of 76mm. However, the D7100 justifies its higher price of $1200 compared to the D5300’s $800 with its superior specs.

The D7100’s advantages include a larger size (136 x 107mm) and heavier weight (765g), which can provide better stability and handling. On the other hand, the D5300’s smaller size (125 x 98mm) and lighter weight (480g) make it more portable and convenient for casual photographers.

To sum up, the Nikon D7100 is a better camera for those seeking higher performance and handling, while the Nikon D5300 is more suitable for those prioritizing portability and affordability.

Nikon D5300 vs D7100 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D7100 wins in optics with a score of 67/100, a narrow 2-point lead over the Nikon D5300 with a score of 65/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as 24.1 and 24.2 megapixels, a CMOS sensor, APS-C sensor size, Nikon F DX lens mount, and no image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras have a DXOMARK sensor score of 83.

The Nikon D7100 outperforms the D5300 in shooting speed, offering 6 frames per second (fps) compared to the D5300’s 5 fps. This advantage allows the D7100 to capture fast-moving subjects more efficiently. Additionally, the D7100 uses an Expeed 3 processor, which may contribute to its faster shooting speed.

On the other hand, the Nikon D5300 has a slightly higher megapixel count, 24.2 compared to the D7100’s 24.1. However, this minor difference is unlikely to significantly impact image quality. The D5300 also features an Expeed 4 processor, which may improve its overall performance and image processing capabilities.

Despite the Nikon D7100’s victory in optics, the Nikon D5300 remains a competitive choice for photographers. Its Expeed 4 processor and marginally higher megapixel count may appeal to those seeking improved performance and image quality. However, the D7100’s faster shooting speed and higher optics score make it the superior choice for capturing fast-paced action and achieving better image quality. Both cameras offer a solid foundation for photographers, with the D7100 taking a slight lead in optics performance.

Nikon D5300 vs D7100 Video Performance

The Nikon D5300 is the winner in the video capabilities comparison, with a score of 70 out of 100, while the Nikon D7100 holds a score of 57. Both cameras share some common features in their video specifications, including a Full HD max video resolution and max video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Nikon D5300 outperforms the D7100 in terms of video frame rate, offering a maximum of 60fps, which is double the frame rate of the D7100’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows the D5300 to capture smoother and more detailed video, especially in fast-moving scenes or while shooting sports and action footage.

On the other hand, the Nikon D7100 does not have any significant advantages over the D5300 in video capabilities. Both cameras share the same video resolution, dimensions, and time-lapse features, with the D5300 boasting a higher frame rate.

Considering the 13-point difference in video scores and the higher frame rate offered by the Nikon D5300, this camera is the better choice for those prioritizing video performance. The D7100, while still a capable camera, does not provide any notable advantages in video capabilities over the D5300, making the latter a more suitable option for users who value high-quality video recording.

Nikon D5300 vs D7100 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D7100 emerges as the winner in the features comparison, scoring 59 out of 100 points, while the Nikon D5300 scores 46 points. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size, lack of touchscreen, WIFI connectivity, and no Bluetooth capabilities.

The Nikon D7100 excels with a higher screen resolution of 1,228,800 dots, compared to the D5300’s 1,037,000 dots. This higher resolution provides a clearer and sharper display, which benefits photographers in reviewing images and navigating the camera’s menu.

On the other hand, the Nikon D5300 has a flip screen and GPS functionality, both of which are not present in the D7100. The flip screen offers more flexibility in shooting angles, allowing photographers to capture images from challenging perspectives. The GPS feature enables automatic geotagging of photos, which is useful for travel photography and location-based documentation.

While the Nikon D7100 has a better overall feature score and screen resolution, the Nikon D5300 offers unique advantages with its flip screen and GPS capabilities. Photographers should consider their specific needs and preferences when deciding between these two cameras. Ultimately, the decision will depend on the importance of the individual features and how they align with the user’s photography style and requirements.

Nikon D5300 vs D7100 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D7100 triumphs over the Nikon D5300 in storage and battery with a score of 76/100, a significant 47-point lead over the D5300’s 29/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards and lack USB charging capabilities. However, the D7100 surpasses the D5300 with its two memory card slots, compared to the D5300’s single slot. This feature allows for more storage flexibility and backup options.

Additionally, the D7100 boasts a longer battery life of 950 shots, whereas the D5300 only manages 600 shots. The D7100 uses the EN-EL15 battery type, while the D5300 utilizes the EN-EL14a battery. Despite these disparities, the D5300 does not have any advantages over the D7100 in storage and battery.

Considering these factors, the Nikon D7100 is the clear winner in terms of storage and battery performance, offering more memory card slots and a longer-lasting battery life compared to the Nikon D5300.

Nikon D5300 vs D7100 – Our Verdict

Nikon D5300 vs D7100 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D5300 or the Nikon D7100: