The Nikon D3200 and the D3100 are entry-level DSLRs targeted at those who are just starting out in photography. The Nikon D3200 is a third iteration of the original D3000 that came out in 2009. While it has not gone through drastic changes, having a very similar layout as the D3100, the same 11 point autofocus system, the same metering sensor and a similar build, it has slightly improved over its predecessor. The camera now sports a very high resolution 24 MP sensor developed by Nikon, faster continuous speed of 4 fps, a much better LCD screen, superior video recording capabilities and other improvements such as WiFi capability through an optional accessory. In this Nikon D3200 vs D3100 comparison, I will go over the features of each camera and compare specifications differences between the two cameras.
Nikon D3200 vs D3100 Specification Comparison
| Camera Feature | Nikon D3200 | Nikon D3100 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Resolution | 24.2 Million | 14.2 Million |
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Sensor Size | 23.2×15.4mm | 23.1×15.4mm |
| Sensor Pixel Size | 3.9µ | 5.0µ |
| Sensor Dust Reduction | Yes | Yes |
| Image Size | 6,016 × 4,000 | 4,608 x 3,072 |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 3 | EXPEED 2 |
| Viewfinder Type | Pentamirror | Pentamirror |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 95% | 95% |
| Built-in Flash | Yes | Yes |
| Storage Media | 1x SD, SDHC, SDXC | 1x SD, SDHC, SDXC |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 4 FPS | 3 FPS |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 to 30 sec | 1/4000 to 30 sec |
| Shutter Durability | 100,000 cycles | 100,000 cycles |
| Exposure Metering Sensor | 420-pixel RGB sensor | 420-pixel RGB sensor |
| Base ISO | ISO 100 | ISO 100 |
| Native ISO Sensitivity | ISO 100-6400 | ISO 100-3200 |
| Boosted ISO Sensitivity | ISO 12800 | ISO 6400, 12800 |
| Autofocus System | Nikon Multi-CAM 1000 | Nikon Multi-CAM 1000 |
| Focus Points | 11, 1 cross-type | 11, 1 cross-type |
| Video Capability | Yes | Yes |
| Video Output | MOV, Compressed | MOV, Compressed |
| Video Maximum Resolution | 1920×1080 (1080p) @ 24p, 25p, 30p | 1920×1080 (1080p) @ 24p |
| Audio Recording | Built-in microphone External stereo microphone (optional) | Built-in microphone External stereo microphone (optional) |
| LCD Size | 3.0″ diagonal TFT-LCD | 3.0″ diagonal TFT-LCD |
| LCD Resolution | 921,000 dots | 230,000 dots |
| HDR Support | No | No |
| Built-in GPS | No | No |
| Wi-Fi Functionality | Eye-Fi Compatible, WU-1a | Eye-Fi Compatible |
| Battery | EN-EL14 Lithium-ion Battery | EN-EL14 Lithium-ion Battery |
| Battery Life | 540 shots (CIPA) | 550 shots (CIPA) |
| Weather Sealed Body | No | No |
| USB Version | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| Weight (Body Only) | 455g | 455g |
| Dimensions | 125 x 96 x 76.5mm | 124.46 x 96.52 x 73.66mm |
| MSRP Price | $699.95 (as introduced) | $699.95 (as introduced) |
As you can see, aside from the sensor and a couple of other features, the Nikon D3200 is very similar to its predecessor.
Oh, and let’s not forget the tiny small viewfinder and less than 100% view of the image.(you may be able to see 100% in live view, I have not checked yet)
My primary camera, D7000 needed repairs @ nikon and I needed a camera for a trip abroad. Having read that several other semi pros use a D3100 for a backup and given a great price I decided to try it.
So far in 2 days I like it.
Good color, accurate exposure – check
Good Autofocus , following action – check
Back button focus – check
No issues with front or back focus with my 85mm D lens – check.
On the negative side:
Lower resolution screen and photos – D7000 is better
No HSS or flash commander mode – I can shoot manual
Limited external controls – preset and go with it.
In conclusion I think it’s a fine camera, quite adjustable up to a point.
Very small, and fun to use. I think it will do fine.
I may even keep it.
I’m a d3100 user and I’m more than happy with the proformance and quality. I can’t find anything to match this little camera, my images are Tac sharp and have no complaints. I used a d7200 and d3200 and found many faults in image quality. I would buy this camera over and over again. I used it for weddings new borns, portrait and my favourite lightning storms and sunsets. I took it on a skiing trip and had fantastic shots of the slopes and fur trees. Highly recommend this Nikon d3100. Save the money for some great Nikon lenses to add to your collection.
I’m a d3100 user and I’m more than happy with the proformance and quality. I can’t find anything to match this little camera, my images are Tac sharp and have no complaints. I used a d7200 and d3200 and found many faults in image quality. I would buy this camera over and over again. I used it for weddings new borns, portrait and my favourite lightning storms and sunsets. I took it on a skiing trip and had fantastic shots of the slopes and fur trees. Highly recommend this Nikon d3100. Save the money for some great Nikon lenses to add to your collection.
Am I the only guy in the universe getting better color rendering images from my D3100 thank the d3200? I bought the D3200 just because of its 24M Pixels capabilities. And before getting rid of my d3100, I decided to test them both neck to neck. To my surprise, I am way more satisfied with the image quality I get from the D3100 than I do with the 3200. The green of the trees and the overall colors around my images are much sharper on the d3100 than the D3200. Has anyone else experienced this?
Hi Nasim, I have a Nikon 3200 with the default lens. Please suggest me a lens that’s good for kids and potraits.
Hii Nasim, I want to buy my first DSLR camera. please suggest me which is best in nikon D3100, D3200, D3300
Please also provide a comparison on Nikon D3200 and D3300.
Thanks Nasim, and I confirm, the D3100 is my first dSLR with which I learnt a lot and I got the virus.
Such an entry level is good for those who are not sure about photography. But still can get decent results. This is also the easy way to learn how to go from the “green” mode to the “pro” mode (my own experience).
Chris
(Reading you from France)
You mentioned insect, bird and landscape so basically you want a macro, telephoto and wide angle lens. You are going to have to purchase multiple lenses. My inexpensive suggestion would be – Nikon 40 2.8G for insects, stick with your 18-55 kit lens for landscape and get the 55-300 for birds.
Thank you so much ocir for your valuable suggestion.
Are these low budget or high budget lenses?
Thanks
Low budget.
What makes the 40mm (2.8) better than the 50 (1.8)