Nikon AW120 vs Nikon D3100

Here, we will be comparing the Nikon AW120 vs Nikon D3100, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR and they are both created by Nikon. The resolution of the AW120 (16MP) and the D3100 (14MP) is relatively close but the AW120 (1/2.3") and D3100 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizes.

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The AW120 was unveiled 3 years later than the D3100 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Nikon AW120 being a Compact camera and the Nikon D3100 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the AW120 grades versus the D3100 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix AW120 & Nikon D3100. The full galleries are available at Nikon AW120 Gallery & Nikon D3100 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to lug around your camera often, you will want to factor its weight and proportions. The Nikon AW120 offers external measurements of 110mm x 66mm x 26mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.0") having a weight of 213 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Nikon D3100 has measurements of 124mm x 96mm x 75mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 505 grams (1.11 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon AW120 vs Nikon D3100 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at that time. The following is a front view scale comparison of the AW120 vs the D3100.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the AW120 and D3100 is 92 and 68 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to envision the difference in sensor measurements only by viewing specs. The visual here might give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the AW120 and D3100.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The AW120 using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Nikon AW120 will render extra detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop photographs way more aggressively. The more recent AW120 will have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.