What To Know
- While the D7100 offers a significant advantage in terms of resolution, the D300’s larger pixels provide better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range, resulting in images with less noise and greater detail in shadows and highlights.
- The D300 offers a continuous shooting speed of up to 6 frames per second (fps), while the D7100 boasts a faster continuous shooting speed of up to 6 fps in DX mode and 7 fps in crop mode.
- The Nikon D7100 has a faster continuous shooting speed and a more advanced autofocus system, making it better suited for capturing fast-paced action and sports photography.
In the realm of photography, Nikon has consistently reigned supreme, offering a wide array of DSLRs tailored to meet the diverse needs of both amateur and professional photographers. Among their most popular offerings are the Nikon D300 and Nikon D7100, two mid-range DSLRs that have captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences and similarities between these two exceptional cameras, empowering you to make an informed decision based on your specific photography requirements.
Sensor and Image Quality
The D300 boasts a 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor, while the D7100 features a higher-resolution 24.1-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor. While the D7100 offers a significant advantage in terms of resolution, the D300’s larger pixels provide better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range, resulting in images with less noise and greater detail in shadows and highlights.
Autofocus System
The D300 employs a 51-point autofocus system, while the D7100 utilizes a more advanced 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors. This enhanced autofocus system in the D7100 provides faster and more accurate focusing, particularly in low-light situations.
Continuous Shooting Speed
The D300 offers a continuous shooting speed of up to 6 frames per second (fps), while the D7100 boasts a faster continuous shooting speed of up to 6 fps in DX mode and 7 fps in crop mode. This higher shooting speed makes the D7100 ideal for capturing fast-paced action or sports photography.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
Both the D300 and D7100 feature a pentaprism viewfinder with 100% coverage. However, the D7100’s viewfinder offers a slightly larger magnification of 0.94x compared to the D300’s 0.95x magnification. Additionally, the D7100 features a 3.2-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 1,229,000 dots, while the D300 has a smaller 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 922,000 dots.
Build and Durability
The D300 is constructed from a magnesium alloy body, making it more robust and weather-resistant than the D7100, which features a polycarbonate body. However, the D7100 is still a well-built camera that can withstand the rigors of outdoor photography.
Battery Life
The D300 uses the EN-EL3e battery, which provides a battery life of approximately 1,000 shots per charge. The D7100 utilizes the EN-EL15 battery, which offers a slightly longer battery life of approximately 1,050 shots per charge.
Price and Availability
The Nikon D300 was released in 2007 and has been discontinued, making it available only in the used market. The Nikon D7100 was released in 2013 and is still in production, offering a wider range of purchase options, including new and used models.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The choice between the Nikon D300 and Nikon D7100 ultimately depends on your individual photography needs and preferences. If you prioritize low-light performance, durability, and a robust build, the D300 remains an excellent choice. However, if you require higher resolution, faster continuous shooting speed, and a more advanced autofocus system, the D7100 is the superior option.
Key Points: Embracing the Evolution of Photography
The Nikon D300 and Nikon D7100 represent two distinct eras in the evolution of mid-range DSLRs. While the D300 excels in low-light performance and ruggedness, the D7100 offers higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and a more advanced autofocus system. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, you can make an informed decision that will empower you to capture stunning images for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which camera has better image quality?
The Nikon D7100 offers higher resolution, resulting in more detailed images. However, the Nikon D300 provides better low-light performance and dynamic range, producing images with less noise and better shadow and highlight detail.
2. Which camera is better for sports photography?
The Nikon D7100 has a faster continuous shooting speed and a more advanced autofocus system, making it better suited for capturing fast-paced action and sports photography.
3. Which camera is more durable?
The Nikon D300 has a more robust magnesium alloy body, making it more resistant to the rigors of outdoor photography.
