DSLR Reviews

Nikon D3300 Camera Review 

Nikon D3300 is the most basic entry-level DSLR camera from Nikon. This 24.2 megapixel camera replaces the earlier D3200 camera and features a DX format image sensor with Nikon EXPEED 4 image processor.

This camera offers many image and video shooting features not found in other entry-level DSLR segment, making it one of the most capable entry-level DSLR cameras in the market. This includes 1080p Full HD video shooting capability at 60 and 50 fps and a high native ISO sensitivity range of ISO 100 to 12,800, expandable to Hi 1 (ISO 25,600 equivalent).

In addition, the camera comes with an autofocus system with 11 AF points and also supports full time autofocus for shooting videos. It also features a continuous shooting rate of 5 frames per second - same as that of the one-step-higher Nikon D5500 DSLR camera.

Other notable camera features include a 3.0 inch TFT display, in-built panorama mode for easily shooting high-resolution panoramas, support for six preset scene modes as well as a "Full green" mode for beginners, in-camera editing, retouching and cropping of images, and HDMI video out support. The camera also supports separately-sold WU-1a Wifi adapter which enables it to connect with smartphones and tablets over Wifi.

A wide range of options are available for Nikon D3300 camera lenses. The D3300 comes with a 18-55 mm ultra-compact VR II lens and fully supports the full range of various AF-X DX Nikkor lenses.

Specifications:

Image Sensor: DX 23.5 x 15.6 mm CMOS

Megapixels: 24.2 MP

Display: 3.0 inch TFT

ISO range: ISO 100 to ISO 12,800

Supported video formats: Full HD 1920 x 1,080 at 60, 50, 30, 25 and 24 fps, HD 1280 x 720 at up to 60, 50 fps, VGA up to 30 fps

Storage: SD card slot

Battery: EN-EL14a rechargeable Li-ion battery with 700 still shots battery life

Interface: HDMI type C, USB 2.0

Dimensions (W x H x D): 4.9 x 3.9 x 3.0 inches (124 x 98 x 75.5 mm)

Weight: 410 grams (14.5 oz)

Accessories: A wide range of compatible Nikon D3300 accessories such as grips, Wi-fi remote controllers as well as Nikkor lenses are available.

Pros & Cons

Pros

- Compact, lightweight beginner-level DSLR camera with good overall performance

- High performance 24.2 megapixel sensor delivers sharp stills and videos

- Various beginner friendly features such as the "Full Green" mode

- Very high ISO sensitivity range for its class, a significant upgrade over D3200

- Weighs just 410 grams - 45 grams lower than its predecessor D3200

- Supports uncompressed video output to HDMI

- Good continuous shooting rate (5 fps) for an entry-level DSLR

- Decent battery life (over 700 stills)


Cons

- Lacks built-in Wifi for connecting to smartphones or tablets

- Small buffer limits continuous shooting options in RAW mode

- Very limited autofocus capability with just 11 AF points

- Fixed non-tilting display

- Inadequate and slow autofocus in video shooting mode

- Lacks a touch display

Comparisons:

Nikon D3300 DSLR camera faces stiff competition in the entry-level DSLR arena but manages to hold its own due to its high-performance APS-C image sensor, high ISO sensitivity range, 60 fps Full HD video support and ease of use.

Some of the notable competitors of Nikon D3300 include Canon EOS 100D, FujiFilm X-A1 and Sony A3000. Nikon D3300 offers superior high ISO performance as well as much better video performance (60 fps 1080p compared to 30 fps of EOS 100D) than Canon EOS 100D. The camera's still and video quality compares well with the highest performing competitors in the segment such as Sony A3000 and FujiFilm X-A1.

Recommendations:

Alternatives to the Nikon D3300 camera in beginner-level DSLR segment include Sony A3000, Samsung NX 2000 and the FujiFilm X-A1. Samsung NX 2000 is much lighter in comparison and also offers a touchscreen display as well as Wifi and NFC connectivity. Sony A3000 offers comparable image quality to the Nikon D3300 at a lower price point though Nikon clearly has an edge in terms of build-quality. Fujifilm X-A1 is another good alternative with in-built Wifi and articulated LCD display though with a lower (16 MP) resolution.

Class-leading high-resolution, Full HD 60 fps capability, numerous beginner-friendly features and a dependable build quality make Nikon D3300 an excellent entry-level DSLR camera.





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