What To Know
- The Nikon D5000 can record video at a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels at 24 frames per second, while the Nikon D5100 can record video at a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels at 30 frames per second.
- However, the D5100 offers a number of advantages over the D5000, including a higher resolution sensor, a more powerful image processor, a wider ISO range, a faster burst mode, a better viewfinder, a larger and higher-resolution LCD screen, and more advanced video features.
- The D5100 offers a number of advantages over the D5000, but the D5000 is still a great option if you’re on a budget or you don’t need all of the features that the D5100 offers.
The Nikon D5000 and Nikon D5100 are two popular entry-level DSLR cameras that have been on the market for several years. Both cameras offer a range of features that make them suitable for beginner and intermediate photographers alike. However, there are some key differences between the two models that may make one more suitable for your needs than the other.
Key Differences
Sensor
The Nikon D5000 has a 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D5100 has a 16.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. This difference in resolution means that the D5100 can capture images with more detail than the D5000. However, the D5000’s sensor is slightly larger than the D5100’s, which gives it a slight edge in terms of low-light performance.
Image Processor
The Nikon D5000 uses the EXPEED image processor, while the Nikon D5100 uses the EXPEED 2 image processor. The EXPEED 2 image processor is more powerful than the EXPEED image processor, which gives the D5100 a number of advantages, including:
- Faster autofocus
- Improved image quality
- Reduced noise levels
- Better dynamic range
ISO Range
The Nikon D5000 has an ISO range of 200-3200, while the Nikon D5100 has an ISO range of 100-6400. This means that the D5100 can capture images in darker conditions than the D5000.
Burst Mode
The Nikon D5000 can shoot at a burst rate of 4 frames per second, while the Nikon D5100 can shoot at a burst rate of 5 frames per second. This difference may not seem like much, but it can be significant if you’re trying to capture fast-moving subjects.
Viewfinder
The Nikon D5000 has a pentamirror viewfinder, while the Nikon D5100 has a pentaprism viewfinder. Pentaprism viewfinders are generally considered to be better than pentamirror viewfinders because they provide a brighter and more accurate view of the scene.
LCD Screen
The Nikon D5000 has a 2.7-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 230,000 dots, while the Nikon D5100 has a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 921,000 dots. The D5100’s LCD screen is larger and has a higher resolution than the D5000’s LCD screen, which makes it easier to view and compose images.
Video Recording
The Nikon D5000 can record video at a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels at 24 frames per second, while the Nikon D5100 can record video at a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels at 30 frames per second. The D5100 also offers a number of additional video features, such as:
- Autofocus during video recording
- Manual exposure control
- External microphone input
Which Camera is Right for You?
The Nikon D5000 and Nikon D5100 are both excellent cameras for beginner and intermediate photographers. However, the D5100 offers a number of advantages over the D5000, including a higher resolution sensor, a more powerful image processor, a wider ISO range, a faster burst mode, a better viewfinder, a larger and higher-resolution LCD screen, and more advanced video features.
If you’re looking for a camera that offers the best possible image quality, performance, and features, then the Nikon D5100 is the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget or you don’t need all of the features that the D5100 offers, then the Nikon D5000 is still a great option.
The Bottom Line
The Nikon D5000 and Nikon D5100 are both excellent cameras for beginner and intermediate photographers. The D5100 offers a number of advantages over the D5000, but the D5000 is still a great option if you’re on a budget or you don’t need all of the features that the D5100 offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera has a better sensor?
A: The Nikon D5100 has a better sensor than the Nikon D5000. It has a higher resolution and a wider ISO range.
Q: Which camera has a faster autofocus system?
A: The Nikon D5100 has a faster autofocus system than the Nikon D5000. It uses the EXPEED 2 image processor, which is more powerful than the EXPEED image processor.
Q: Which camera has a better viewfinder?
A: The Nikon D5100 has a better viewfinder than the Nikon D5000. It uses a pentaprism viewfinder, which is brighter and more accurate than a pentamirror viewfinder.
