Nikon P520 vs Nikon D3200

On this page, we are evaluating the Nikon P520 vs Nikon D3200, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR and both are created by Nikon. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the P520 (18MP) and D3200 (24MP) and the P520 (1/2.3") and D3200 (APS-C) provide different sensor dimensions.

Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

The P520 was manufactured 7 months later than the D3200 which means that they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras have different body design with the Nikon P520 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Nikon D3200 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting straight to a in depth comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the P520 matches up against the D3200 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix P520 and Nikon D3200. The entire galleries are provided at Nikon P520 Gallery and Nikon D3200 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera regularly, you will want to think about its weight and proportions. The Nikon P520 features external dimensions of 125mm x 84mm x 102mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.0") along with a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs) while the Nikon D3200 has measurements of 125mm x 96mm x 77mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 3.0") having a weight of 505 grams (1.11 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon P520 vs Nikon D3200 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you choose at that time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the P520 vs the D3200.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the P520 and D3200 is 66 and 67 respectively.

Normally, it can be difficult to visualize the gap between sensor sizing purely by checking a spec sheet. The visual underneath should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the P520 and D3200.

Clearly, both the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The P520 featuring a tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF harder and the Nikon D3200 will give you extra detail due to its extra 6MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images more aggressively. The more recent P520 provides an advantage in sensor technology.