Nikon D5100 Summary
Nikon D5100 Assessment
The Nikon D5100 is the upper-entry-level camera in the Nikon DSLR lineup. Slotting itself just above the D3100
Nikon D3100, it produces superior-quality images using a similar design with a less efficient interface. Above it, the D7000
Nikon D7000 shares the 16 megapixels CMOS-sensor while providing a complete feature-set for advanced photographers including a large viewfinder showing 100% coverage, weather-sealing, 6 FPS continuous drive and an ultra-fast 39-point autofocus system.
This distills the D5100 to image quality above all else which is essentially what most new DSLR users are looking for. Many people are frustrated by the image quality of their existing digital camera yet truly want a point-and-shoot experience, which the D5100 can deliver. It also has enough features to give a taste of what can be accomplished with true photographic controls, encouraging people to eventually move on to higher-end offerings.
The D5100 has few competitors exactly at its level, with most entry levels not offering comparable image quality and those higher offering more features at a higher-price. There is the Sony Alpha A580
Sony Alpha A580 which offers built-in stabilization but no autofocus during 1080p video capture.
Neocamera detailed review Read the full Nikon D5100 review here.
PROS | CONS |
---|---|
Very low image noise | Mostly slow autofocus |
Excellent white-balance | Uneven color response |
Reliable metering | Slight image softness |
Good dynamic range | Noise-reduction even when disabled |
Accurate autofocus system | LCD glare when settings are changed |
Quick shutter-lag | Live-View not exposure-priority |
Great shot-to-shoot speed | Microphone records camera noise |
Instant power-on and off times | Difficulty to setup video framing |
Quick to record and stop video | Limited external controls |
Full HD video with autofocus | Limited interface control |
Good build quality | Odd Auto ISO behavior |
Rangefinder MF assistance | Lens mount lacks mechanical-coupling |
Excellent Excellent |
Recent Similar Cameras
Nikon D5100 Related Information
Sister Models |
---|
Nikon D3100 Nikon D3100 - 14 Megapixels, ISO 12800 Max, 3" 230K Pixels LCD, 3 FPS |
Nikon D5000 Nikon D5000 - 12 Megapixels, ISO 6400 Max, 2.7" 230K Pixels LCD, 720p Max Video Resolution |
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Nikon D5100 Highlights
Sensor-Size: 24 x 16mm
Actual size when viewed at 100 DPI
16 Megapixels DSLR | ISO 100-25600 |
Nikon F Mount 1.5X FLM | Shutter 1/4000-30s |
95% Coverage Small Viewfinder | Full manual controls, including Manual Focus |
Built-in Dust Reduction | Custom white-balance with 2 axis fine-tuning |
4 FPS Drive, 100 Images | Spot-Metering |
1920x1080 @ 30 FPS Video Recording | Hot-Shoe |
3" LCD 920K Pixels | Stereo audio input |
Lithium-Ion Battery | |
Secure Digital Extended Capacity |
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