Canon 1D MIII vs Nikon D3100

Let's take a more detailed look at the Canon 1D MIII vs Nikon D3100, one being a Pro DSLR and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Canon and Nikon. There exists a sizeable gap between the resolutions of the 1D MIII (10MP) and D3100 (14MP) and the 1D MIII (APS-H) and D3100 (APS-C) provide different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The 1D MIII was announced 4 years earlier than the D3100 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Canon 1D MIII being a Large SLR camera and the Nikon D3100 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple overview of how the 1D MIII matches up versus the D3100 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon EOS-1D Mark III and Nikon D3100. The whole galleries are provided at Canon 1D MIII Gallery and Nikon D3100 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera regularly, you should consider its weight and dimensions. The Canon 1D MIII features exterior dimensions of 156mm x 157mm x 80mm (6.1" x 6.2" x 3.1") accompanied by a weight of 1335 grams (2.94 lbs) whilst the Nikon D3100 has dimensions of 124mm x 96mm x 75mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 3.0") having a weight of 505 grams (1.11 lbs).

Check the Canon 1D MIII vs Nikon D3100 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using during that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the 1D MIII versus the D3100.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1D MIII and D3100 is 51 and 68 respectively.

Normally, it can be tough to picture the difference between sensor sizing purely by reading through technical specs. The graphic here should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the 1D MIII and D3100.

As you have seen, both cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The 1D MIII having a bigger sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF easier and the Nikon D3100 will give extra detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures more aggressively. The older 1D MIII is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.