Upgrade Guide

Nikon D5100→Nikon D3100

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

You own

Nikon

D5100

£35 used

2011

→

Upgrade to

Nikon

D3100

£35 used (-£0)

2010

❌

Skip it

The D3100 offers little measurable spec improvement over the D5100. 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	D5100	D3100
Price	£35 used	£35 used
Released	2011	2010	↓
Sensor	16.2MP APS-C CMOS	14.2MP APS-C CMOS
Resolution	16MP	14MP	↓
Video	Full HD 1080p/30	Full HD 1080p/24, 720p/30
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	3fps	↓
Battery Life	~660 shots (CIPA)	~550 shots (CIPA)	↓
Weight	560g (with battery)	505g (with battery)	↑
Weather Sealed	Not weather sealed	Not weather sealed
Viewfinder	Optical pentamirror, 95% coverage, 0.78x	Optical pentamirror, 95% coverage, 0.8x
Screen	3.0" vari-angle LCD, 921k dots	3.0" fixed LCD, 230k dots
Mount	Nikon F-mount (DX)	Nikon F-mount (DX)
Memory Cards	Single SD slot	Single SD slot

Compare side-by-side

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