Upgrade Guide

Nikon D3200→Nikon D5000

Is it worth upgrading? Spec analysis, key improvements, and our verdict.

You own

Nikon

D3200

£44 used

2012

→

Upgrade to

Nikon

D5000

£25 used (-£19)

2009

❌

Skip it

The D5000 offers little measurable spec improvement over the D3200. Spend the money on glass instead.

Unchanged or similar

Suitability by genre

Base scores — computed from verified specs for an enthusiast shooting photo and video. The Upgrade Checker adjusts them for your skill level.

Full spec comparison

Spec	D3200	D5000
Price	£44 used	£25 used
Released	2012	2009	↓
Sensor	24.2MP APS-C CMOS	12.3MP APS-C CMOS
Resolution	24MP	12MP	↓
Video	Full HD 1080p/30, 720p/60	720p/24
Autofocus	11-point phase-detect (1 cross-type) via viewfinder; contrast AF with face priority in live view	11-point phase-detect (1 cross-type) via viewfinder; contrast AF with face priority in live view
Stabilisation	No IBIS (lens-based stabilisation only)	No IBIS (lens-based stabilisation only)
Burst Rate	4fps	4fps
Battery Life	~540 shots (CIPA)	~510 shots (CIPA)	↓
Weight	505g (with battery)	560g (body only)	↓
Weather Sealed	Not weather sealed	Not weather sealed
Viewfinder	Optical pentamirror, 95% coverage, 0.8x	Optical pentamirror, 95% coverage, 0.78x
Screen	3.0" fixed LCD, 921k dots	2.7" vari-angle LCD, 230k dots
Mount	Nikon F-mount (DX)	Nikon F-mount (DX)
Memory Cards	Single SD slot	Single SD slot

Compare side-by-side

See D3200 and D5000 next to each other with our interactive comparison tool.

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