Canon 500D vs Nikon D3100

On this page, we will be reviewing the Canon 500D versus Nikon D3100, both Entry-Level DSLR cameras by competitors Canon and Nikon. The sensor resolution of the 500D (15MP) and the D3100 (14MP) is pretty comparable and both cameras provide the same sensor measurements (APS-C).

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The 500D was introduced 18 months earlier than the D3100 which makes them a generation apart from each other. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before we go into a detailed comparison, here is a concise view of how the 500D grades against the D3100 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon EOS 500D and Nikon D3100. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon 500D Gallery and Nikon D3100 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera, you're going to have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Canon 500D comes with outside measurements of 129mm x 98mm x 62mm (5.1" x 3.9" x 2.4") with a weight of 520 grams (1.15 lbs) whilst the Nikon D3100 has measurements of 124mm x 96mm x 75mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 3.0") along with a weight of 505 grams (1.11 lbs).

See the Canon 500D versus Nikon D3100 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at the time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the 500D compared to the D3100.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the 500D and D3100 is 70 and 68 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizing purely by going through a spec sheet. The graphic below will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the 500D and D3100.

Clearly, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Canon 500D to produce more detail using its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will let you crop pictures more aggressively. The older 500D will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.