Canon 650D vs Nikon D5100

Here is a detailed comparison of the Canon 650D and Nikon D5100, both Entry-Level DSLR cameras by rivals Canon and Nikon. The sensor resolution of the 650D (18MP) and the D5100 (16MP) is relatively close and they use the same exact sensor dimensions (APS-C).

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The 650D was announced 17 months later than the D5100 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact SLR).

Before getting straight into a full comparison, below is a short overview of how the 650D matches up versus the D5100 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon EOS 650D & Nikon D5100. The whole galleries are provided at Canon 650D Gallery & Nikon D5100 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Canon 650D enjoys physical dimensions of 133mm x 100mm x 79mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.1") with a weight of 575 grams (1.27 lbs) while the Nikon D5100 has dimensions of 128mm x 97mm x 79mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.1") having a weight of 560 grams (1.23 lbs).

Contrast the Canon 650D and Nikon D5100 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Here is the front view dimensions comparison of the 650D and the D5100.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the 650D and D5100 is 65 and 66 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to picture the gap in sensor sizing purely by looking through specs. The visual below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the 650D and D5100.

As you can plainly see, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You can count on the Canon 650D to render extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots far more aggressively. The more recent 650D provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.