Nikon P520 vs Nikon D3100

On this page, we will be comparing the Nikon P520 vs Nikon D3100, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR and they are both manufactured by Nikon. There is a noticeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the P520 (18MP) and D3100 (14MP) and the P520 (1/2.3") and D3100 (APS-C) posses different sensor dimensions.

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The P520 was introduced 2 years later than the D3100 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Nikon P520 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Nikon D3100 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting into a complete comparison, here is a brief summation of how the P520 scores against the D3100 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix P520 & Nikon D3100. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon P520 Gallery & Nikon D3100 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera, you will want to think about its weight and proportions. The Nikon P520 offers exterior dimensions of 125mm x 84mm x 102mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.0") accompanied by a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs) while 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).

Contrast the Nikon P520 vs Nikon D3100 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you use during that time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the P520 and the D3100.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the P520 and D3100 is 66 and 68 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to visualize the gap in sensor sizing only by seeing specifications. The photograph underneath may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the P520 and D3100.

Plainly, each of the cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The P520 having a smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Nikon P520 will provide extra detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The younger P520 should have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.