Nikon P950 vs Nikon D5100

Here is a detailed overview of the Nikon P950 vs Nikon D5100, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR and they are both produced by Nikon. The resolution of the P950 (16MP) and the D5100 (16MP) is relatively similar but the P950 (1/2.3") and D5100 (APS-C) feature different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The P950 was released 8 years later than the D5100 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Nikon P950 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Nikon D5100 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a detailed comparison, below is a concise summation of how the P950 scores versus the D5100 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix P950 and Nikon D5100. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon P950 Gallery and Nikon D5100 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you will want to think about its weight and measurements. The Nikon P950 comes with exterior measurements of 140mm x 110mm x 150mm (5.5" x 4.3" x 5.9") with a weight of 1005 grams (2.22 lbs) while the Nikon D5100 has proportions of 128mm x 97mm x 79mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.1") and a weight of 560 grams (1.23 lbs).

Check the Nikon P950 vs Nikon D5100 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. Here is the front view scale comparison of the P950 versus the D5100.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the P950 and D5100 is 52 and 66 respectively.

Often, it is tough to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reading technical specs. The visual underneath may give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the P950 and D5100.

As you can tell, each of the cameras posses the exact same resolution albeit different sensor sizing. The P950 includes the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallower DOF trickier. The more recent P950 provides an edge in sensor technology.