What To Know
- The A58 and the D5100 both offer a wide range of features that make them versatile cameras for a variety of shooting situations.
- If you’re on a budget, the Nikon D5100 is a good alternative that still offers a great balance of features and performance.
- The Sony Alpha A58 has a number of advantages over the Nikon D5100 for video recording, including the ability to record video at 60 fps and the built-in stereo microphone.
When it comes to entry-level DSLRs, the Sony Alpha A58 and the Nikon D5100 are two of the most popular options on the market. Both cameras offer a great balance of features, performance, and affordability, making them ideal for aspiring photographers of all skill levels. But which one is the better choice for you? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll pit the Sony Alpha A58 against the Nikon D5100 to help you make an informed decision.
Image Quality
Both the A58 and the D5100 feature APS-C-sized CMOS sensors with a resolution of 20.1 megapixels. This means that they can capture sharp and detailed images with excellent color reproduction. However, the A58 has a slight edge in terms of image quality, thanks to its improved image processing engine. This results in images with better dynamic range and less noise, especially in low-light conditions.
Autofocus
The A58 and the D5100 both have impressive autofocus systems. The A58 uses a phase-detection system with 15 autofocus points, while the D5100 uses a contrast-detection system with 11 autofocus points. In practice, both systems are very fast and accurate, making them well-suited for capturing moving subjects. However, the A58 has a slight advantage in low-light conditions, as its phase-detection system is more sensitive to light.
Burst Shooting
If you’re interested in capturing fast-paced action, you’ll want to consider the burst shooting capabilities of the A58 and the D5100. The A58 can shoot up to 8 frames per second (fps), while the D5100 can shoot up to 4 fps. This makes the A58 a better choice for capturing sports or wildlife photography.
Video Recording
Both the A58 and the D5100 can record full HD video at 1080p resolution. However, the A58 has a number of advantages over the D5100 in terms of video recording. First, the A58 can record video at 60 fps, while the D5100 is limited to 30 fps. This allows you to capture smoother and more realistic-looking videos. Second, the A58 has a built-in stereo microphone, while the D5100 requires an external microphone for audio recording.
Features
The A58 and the D5100 both offer a wide range of features that make them versatile cameras for a variety of shooting situations. Some of the notable features include:
- Built-in flash
- Self-timer
- Scene modes
- Creative filters
- RAW image capture
Ergonomics
The A58 and the D5100 are both comfortable to hold and use, even for extended periods of time. The A58 has a slightly larger grip than the D5100, which may make it more comfortable for people with larger hands. Both cameras have a good number of buttons and dials, making it easy to adjust settings quickly and easily.
Price
The Sony Alpha A58 and the Nikon D5100 are both priced similarly, making them great value for money. The A58 is typically priced around $500, while the D5100 is priced around $600.
Which Camera is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a camera with excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and impressive video recording capabilities, the Sony Alpha A58 is a great choice. If you’re on a budget, the Nikon D5100 is a good alternative that still offers a great balance of features and performance.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which camera has a better autofocus system?
A: The Sony Alpha A58 has a more advanced phase-detection autofocus system than the Nikon D5100, which makes it better suited for capturing moving subjects in low-light conditions.
Q: Which camera can shoot faster burst shots?
A: The Sony Alpha A58 can shoot up to 8 frames per second (fps), while the Nikon D5100 can only shoot up to 4 fps.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Sony Alpha A58 has a number of advantages over the Nikon D5100 for video recording, including the ability to record video at 60 fps and the built-in stereo microphone.
