Nikon D3100 vs Pentax K-500

Following is a in-depth comparison of the Nikon D3100 vs Pentax K-500, both Entry-Level DSLR digital cameras by companies Nikon and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the D3100 (14MP) and the K-500 (16MP) is fairly similar and they use the same exact sensor sizes (APS-C).

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The D3100 was released 3 years earlier than the K-500 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact SLR).

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a simple summation of how the D3100 matches up versus the K-500 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon D3100 and Pentax K-500. The complete galleries are provided at Nikon D3100 Gallery and Pentax K-500 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera, you will want to factor its weight and proportions. The Nikon D3100 offers outer 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) whilst the Pentax K-500 has measurements of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Compare the Nikon D3100 vs Pentax K-500 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the D3100 against the K-500.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the D3100 and K-500 is 68 and 64 respectively.

Typically, it is very tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizes simply by reviewing a spec sheet. The picture here will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the D3100 and K-500.

As you can see, both of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Pentax K-500 to deliver more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more aged D3100 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.