Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
 57
SCORE
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✓ WINNER
 69
SCORE
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| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Pentax |
| Model | D5300 | K-3 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2013 | 2013 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
17/10/2013 | 08/10/2013 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 125 x 98 x 76 mm | 131 x 100 x 77 mm |
| Camera weight | 480 g | 800 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
24.2 MP050 | 24 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
6000 x 4000 | 6016 x 4000 |
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 | 15.6 x 23.5 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-C | APS-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 fps045 | 8.3 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 DX | Pentax KAF |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Expeed 4 | Prime III |
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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
128003003280000 | 512003003280000 |
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. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 512003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
400080032000 | 800080032000 |
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. |
390300 | 270300 |
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/A | N/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 HD | Full 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 1080 | 1920 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 fps | 60 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. |
MOV | MPEG-4 |
| 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 | 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 | 3.2" | 3.2" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
10370001150001500000 | 10370001150001500000 |
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 / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
| Dual memory card slots | ✗ | ✓ |
| Battery type | EN-EL14a | D-LI90 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
600 shots1505000 | 560 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Pentax K-3 comes out ahead in our comparison with a score of 69/100, while the Nikon D5300 receives a score of 57/100. Both cameras are DSLRs released in 2013, with similar dimensions and launch prices of $800 for the Nikon D5300 and $1300 for the Pentax K-3.
The Nikon D5300 and Pentax K-3 share some common specifications, such as camera type and release year. The Pentax K-3, however, is better in terms of overall score and camera weight, weighing 800g compared to the Nikon D5300’s 480g. This additional weight may provide a more stable shooting experience.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5300 has a lower launch price, making it more accessible for those on a tighter budget.
Taking all of these factors into consideration, the Pentax K-3 is the superior camera due to its higher score, while the Nikon D5300 is a more budget-friendly option.
The Pentax K-3 outperforms the Nikon D5300 in optics with a score of 74/100 compared to the latter’s 65/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 24-megapixel CMOS sensors, APS-C sensor sizes, and compatibility with their respective lens mounts, the Pentax KAF and Nikon F DX.
The Pentax K-3 surpasses the Nikon D5300 in several aspects, notably its faster shooting speed of 8.3 frames per second compared to the D5300’s 5 frames per second. This difference allows the K-3 to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the K-3 features image stabilization, ensuring sharper images in various shooting conditions. The absence of this feature in the Nikon D5300 may result in increased image blur.
Conversely, the Nikon D5300 possesses a marginally higher megapixel count of 24.2, which could contribute to slightly more detailed images. However, this difference is minimal and may not significantly impact image quality. The D5300 also has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 83 compared to the K-3’s 80, indicating better overall sensor performance.
Despite these advantages, the Nikon D5300’s higher sensor score and megapixel count do not compensate for its slower shooting speed and lack of image stabilization. The Pentax K-3’s superior performance in these areas makes it the better choice for photographers seeking improved optics.
The Nikon D5300 and the Pentax K-3 both receive a video score of 70/100, indicating that these cameras have similar video capabilities. They share several specs in common, such as max video resolution, max video dimensions, max video frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality.
Both cameras offer Full HD video resolution, providing clear and detailed video footage. Their max video dimensions are 1920 x 1080, ensuring a high-quality display. The cameras also support a max video frame rate of 60fps, allowing for smooth video playback. Additionally, both the Nikon D5300 and the Pentax K-3 have built-in time-lapse functionality, enabling users to capture stunning time-lapse videos without the need for external accessories.
Since the video scores are equal, neither camera is distinctly better than the other in this aspect. However, there may be other factors that could influence a user’s preference, such as brand loyalty, overall design, or additional features not related to video capabilities.
When comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon D5300 and the Pentax K-3, it is clear that both cameras perform similarly and offer excellent video quality. Users can confidently choose either camera for their video needs, as the video specs are nearly identical. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras will likely come down to personal preference and other factors unrelated to video performance.
The Pentax K-3 emerges as the winner in the features category with a score of 59/100, while the Nikon D5300 scores 46/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size and a screen resolution of 1,037,000 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen.
The Pentax K-3 surpasses the Nikon D5300 in certain aspects. It has a more robust build, making it a more durable option. The K-3 also boasts a larger viewfinder, providing a better view of the subject while shooting. However, it does not have a flip screen, GPS, WIFI, or Bluetooth capabilities.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5300 excels in its connectivity features. It has a flip screen, which is useful for capturing images and videos from different angles. The D5300 also offers GPS, allowing users to geotag their photos for easy organization. Additionally, it has WIFI capabilities, enabling wireless transfer of images and remote control of the camera. However, it lacks Bluetooth connectivity.
In terms of features, the Pentax K-3 offers more in terms of durability and viewfinder size. The Nikon D5300 provides better connectivity options with its flip screen, GPS, and WIFI capabilities. Depending on the user’s priorities and shooting preferences, each camera has its advantages. Ultimately, the Pentax K-3 takes the lead in the features category, but the Nikon D5300 remains a strong contender with its unique connectivity options.
The Pentax K-3 outperforms the Nikon D5300 in storage and battery with a score of 63/100 compared to the D5300’s 29/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the K-3 has an advantage with two memory card slots, while the D5300 only has one. This provides more storage capacity and flexibility for the Pentax K-3.
In terms of battery life, the Nikon D5300 is slightly better, offering 600 shots per charge versus the Pentax K-3’s 560 shots. Both cameras use different battery types, the D5300 with the EN-EL14a and the K-3 with the D-LI90. Neither camera includes USB charging capabilities.
Despite the D5300’s marginally better battery life, the Pentax K-3’s overall higher score and dual memory card slots make it the superior choice for storage and battery considerations.
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 Pentax K-3:
