Nikon D3100

Optics

Features

Storage & Battery

General	Nikon D3100
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Brand	Nikon
Model	D3100
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.	2010
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.	October 01, 2010
Camera Type	DSLR
Camera Size	mm" 124 x 96 x 75mm4.9 x 3.8 x 3" 124 x 96 x 75mm 4.9 x 3.8 x 3"
Camera Weight	glb 505 g1.11 lb 505 g 1.11 lb

The Nikon D3100 receives a score of 41/100. Launched in October 2010, this DSLR camera initially sold for $699. Measuring 124 x 96 x 75mm and weighing 505g or 1.11lbs, the D3100 is a compact and lightweight option. However, considering the advancements in camera technology since its release, the D3100 may not be the most competitive choice in today’s market. Despite this, it remains a viable option for beginners or those looking for an affordable DSLR camera.

Nikon D3100 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D3100’s optics receive a score of 41 out of 100. With 14.8 megapixels, a shooting speed of 3 frames per second, and a CMOS sensor, the camera provides decent image quality. The Expeed 2 processor and DXOMARK sensor score of 67 contribute to its overall performance. However, the APS-C sensor size and Nikon F DX lens mount are standard features found in similar cameras on the market.

The absence of image stabilization may result in less sharp images when shooting handheld, and the 3:2 aspect ratio is a common format for most DSLRs. Comparing these specifications to other cameras available today, the Nikon D3100 falls short of providing cutting-edge technology or exceptional performance in the optics department.

The Nikon D3100 is a reliable option for beginner photographers, but those seeking advanced features and superior optics may want to explore other cameras in the market.

Optics	Nikon D3100
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.	14.8 MP
Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.	4608 x 3072 px
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.	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.	15.4 x 23.1 mm
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.	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.	3 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
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.	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
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
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.	3,200
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
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.	12800
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.	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
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
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)

Nikon D3100 Video Performance

The Nikon D3100 lacks video capabilities. This camera is good for still photography only.

Video	Nikon D3100
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
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.

Nikon D3100 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D3100’s features score is 36/100. The camera possesses a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 230,000 dots. However, it lacks modern features such as a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth.

In comparison to today’s market, the D3100’s specifications are outdated. Many current cameras offer touchscreens and flip screens, enhancing user experience and flexibility. Additionally, the absence of GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth limits the camera’s connectivity options, making it less convenient for sharing and transferring photos.

The Nikon D3100 is a reliable camera but falls short in terms of features when compared to contemporary models. Its lack of modern amenities may deter potential buyers searching for a more advanced and user-friendly camera.

Features	Nikon D3100
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
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"
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.	230,000 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 D3100 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D3100 receives a storage and battery score of 53/100. This camera has a single memory card slot, compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. In the current market, multiple memory card slots are preferred for flexibility and increased storage capacity. However, the single slot may suffice for casual photographers.

The battery life offers an impressive 4500 shots per charge, utilizing the EN-EL14 battery type. This surpasses many competitors, providing extended shooting time for users. Unfortunately, the camera lacks USB charging capabilities, which limits convenience compared to modern cameras with this feature.

Considering these specifications, the Nikon D3100 has a decent storage and battery performance, yet falls short in some aspects when compared to current market standards.

Storage and Battery	Nikon D3100
Memory Card	SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type	EN-EL14
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.	4,500 shots
USB Charging

DXOMARK Scores Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK	Nikon D3100
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.'	22.5 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.'	11.3 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'	919

Scores	Nikon D3100

User Scores	Nikon D3100
B&H photo video	1227 reviews Check it on B&H

Nikon D3100 Alternatives

Do you want to know how the Nikon D3100 compares to its competitors? Have a look at the most popular comparisons for this camera below:

Nikon D3100 FAQ

Does the Nikon D3100 Have Built-in Image Stabilization?

The Nikon D3100 does not have built-in image stabilization. However, it supports Nikon lenses with VR (Vibration Reduction) technology, which helps to minimize camera shake.

Does the Nikon D3100 Support 4K Video Recording?

The Nikon D3100 does have video functionality, but it does not support 4K video recording. It can record Full HD 1080p videos at 24 frames per second.

What Size Sensor Does The Nikon D3100 Have?

The Nikon D3100 features an APS-C sized sensor, which is a 23.1 x 15.4 mm DX-format CMOS sensor with 14.2 effective megapixels.

Does the Nikon D3100 Have a Dual Memory Card Slot?

The Nikon D3100 has a single SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slot and does not support dual memory cards.

Does the Nikon D3100 Have a Touch Screen?

The Nikon D3100 does not have a touch screen. It features a 3-inch fixed LCD screen with a 230k-dot resolution.

Does the Nikon D3100 Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

The Nikon D3100 does not have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. However, you can use an optional wireless mobile adapter for remote shooting and image transfer.