Upgrade Guide

Nikon D800→Nikon D5100

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

You own

Nikon

D800

£121 used

2012

→

Upgrade to

Nikon

D5100

£35 used (-£85)

2011

❌

Skip it

The D5100 offers little measurable spec improvement over the D800. 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	D800	D5100
Price	£121 used	£35 used
Released	2012	2011	↓
Sensor	36.3MP full-frame CMOS	16.2MP APS-C CMOS
Resolution	36MP	16MP	↓
Video	Full HD 1080p/30, 720p/60	Full HD 1080p/30
Autofocus	51-point phase-detect (15 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	~900 shots (CIPA)	~660 shots (CIPA)	↓
Weight	1000g (with battery)	560g (with battery)	↑
Weather Sealed	Yes	Not weather sealed	↓
Viewfinder	Optical pentaprism, 100% coverage, 0.7x	Optical pentamirror, 95% coverage, 0.78x
Screen	3.2" fixed LCD, 921k dots	3.0" vari-angle LCD, 921k dots
Mount	Nikon F mount	Nikon F-mount (DX)
Memory Cards	Dual slots: CompactFlash + SD	Single SD slot

Compare side-by-side

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