Nikon D3100 vs Nikon D5000

Why is Nikon D3100 a better choice than Nikon D5000

What are the key reasons to pick Nikon D5000 over Nikon D3100

Key PROs of Nikon D3100 and Nikon D5000

Key CONs of Nikon D3100 and Nikon D5000

Before heading straight to the technical characteristics of each model, let’s start with comparing their physical specs. Let’s start with looking at the physical difference of the two products. Below are images that clearly show the sizes of Nikon D3100 and Nikon D5000 from the front view.

Nikon D3100

Nikon D5000

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Now, let’s go on and see how the reviewed models are different or similar by the top view.

Nikon D3100

Nikon D5000

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After looking at these images, you should get a clear idea of each model’s dimensions and how they are different from each other. However, we are not going to stop there. The next characteristic worth looking at is the weight. Of course, not every photographer is concerned about the weight, for example, it wouldn't be a decisive point for those who shoot in a studio. However, it is still an important factor because if you happen to go on a long photo session or just love having the camera with you wherever you go, you want to be sure that the chosen model isn't too heavy.

Speaking of weight, Nikon D3100 is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 85g less than the Nikon D5000. This difference, in fact, can become a significant disadvantage for the photographers, who prefer to have their cameras with them wherever they go.

If you are interested in photography or has made a career in this field, you should know that different types of shooting actually require different camera characteristics. While one model can produce outstanding portraits, at the same time, it can be terrible for shooting landscapes, and so on. Thus, before you purchase a specific camera, it is vital to decide, which type of shooting you do most often and consider an option that suits it the most.

This section of our comparison is devoted to the performance of Nikon D3100 and Nikon D5000 in different fields of photography. Here we are going to look at the five main areas and evaluate how well each of the reviewed models performs in them. This will help you choose an option that suits your needs the most depending on your interest in one or several of these fields.

Hopefully, our detailed overview of these models has helped you consider all the main specs, pros and cons of each cameras. Maybe, after reading this comparison, some of you have already decided which option to opt for depending on your needs and preferences. However, if you are still wondering which option is a better choice, Nikon D3100 or Nikon D5000, below you can see what scores each of them received in five different aspects. To wrap up, we have used our unique Decision Algorithm that assesses different camera models upon 63 different factors including their price, and, if possible, DxO Mark scores. This algorithm allows us to make our verdict more consistent and objective.

What is our final verdict? Based on our comparison and the final scores of Nikon D3100 and Nikon D5000 here is what we can say in conclusion:

According all the factors that we considered in the process of comparing these two cameras, Nikon D3100 deserves a higher Total Score than the Nikon D5000. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.

For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below: