What To Know
- The D3300, on the other hand, features a more advanced 11-point autofocus system with a cross-type sensor in the center, resulting in faster and more precise focusing.
- The Nikon D3300 is more suitable for beginners or hobbyists seeking a compact and easy-to-use camera with a high-resolution sensor and a wide ISO range.
- The D3300, on the other hand, is a more compact and user-friendly option with a high-resolution sensor, a wider ISO range, and video capabilities, making it a great choice for beginners and casual photographers.
In the realm of photography, the Nikon D90 and Nikon D3300 stand as popular choices for aspiring photographers seeking a reliable and feature-rich camera. While both cameras share the Nikon heritage, they differ significantly in their capabilities and target audience. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each camera, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific photography needs.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon D90 boasts a 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D3300 features a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. The D3300’s higher resolution allows for capturing larger images with finer details. However, the D90’s larger sensor size (APS-C) provides better low-light performance and dynamic range.
Autofocus System
The D90 employs an 11-point autofocus system, which offers decent accuracy and speed. The D3300, on the other hand, features a more advanced 11-point autofocus system with a cross-type sensor in the center, resulting in faster and more precise focusing.
Continuous Shooting
The Nikon D90 can capture up to 4.5 frames per second (fps) in continuous shooting mode, while the Nikon D3300 can shoot at a faster 5 fps. This makes the D3300 a better choice for capturing action sequences or fast-moving subjects.
ISO Range
The D90 has an ISO range of 200-3200, expandable to 6400. The D3300 has a wider ISO range of 100-12800, expandable to 25600. The extended ISO range of the D3300 allows for shooting in even darker conditions.
Display and Viewfinder
The Nikon D90 features a 3-inch fixed LCD display with a resolution of 921k dots. The D3300 has a larger 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD display with a slightly lower resolution of 921k dots. The vari-angle design of the D3300 provides greater flexibility for shooting from different angles.
Video Capabilities
Both the D90 and D3300 can record 1080p video at 24 fps. However, the D3300 offers additional video features, such as a built-in microphone and the ability to record stereo sound.
Battery Life
The Nikon D90 is powered by an EN-EL3e battery, which provides approximately 850 shots per charge. The Nikon D3300 uses an EN-EL14a battery, which offers a slightly longer battery life of 1200 shots per charge.
Ergonomics and Build Quality
The D90 is a larger and heavier camera than the D3300, with a more robust build quality. It features a magnesium alloy body, while the D3300 has a polycarbonate body. The D90 also has a more comfortable grip and dedicated buttons for various functions.
Target Audience
The Nikon D90 is a good choice for photographers looking for a versatile and capable camera with excellent low-light performance and manual controls. The Nikon D3300 is more suitable for beginners or hobbyists seeking a compact and easy-to-use camera with a high-resolution sensor and a wide ISO range.
Conclusion
The Nikon D90 and Nikon D3300 are both capable cameras that cater to different photography needs. The D90 offers a larger sensor, better low-light performance, and more manual controls, making it ideal for enthusiasts and advanced photographers. The D3300, on the other hand, is a more compact and user-friendly option with a high-resolution sensor, a wider ISO range, and video capabilities, making it a great choice for beginners and casual photographers.
FAQ
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Nikon D90 has a larger sensor and better low-light performance than the D3300.
Q: Which camera has a faster autofocus system?
A: The Nikon D3300 has a more advanced autofocus system with a cross-type sensor in the center, resulting in faster and more precise focusing.
Q: Which camera can shoot more frames per second?
A: The Nikon D3300 can shoot at a faster 5 fps in continuous shooting mode compared to the D90’s 4.5 fps.
Q: Which camera has a larger ISO range?
A: The Nikon D3300 has a wider ISO range of 100-12800, expandable to 25600, compared to the D90’s 200-3200, expandable to 6400.
Q: Which camera has a vari-angle LCD display?
A: The Nikon D3300 features a 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD display, while the D90 has a fixed LCD display.
