Nikon D3100 vs Sony H20

In this write-up, we are comparing the Nikon D3100 versus Sony H20, former is a Entry-Level DSLR while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Nikon and Sony. There is a noticeable difference between the resolutions of the D3100 (14MP) and H20 (10MP) and the D3100 (APS-C) and H20 (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The D3100 was unveiled 20 months after the H20 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Nikon D3100 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony H20 being a Compact camera.

Before diving through a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick summary of how the D3100 scores versus the H20 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon D3100 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H20. The full galleries are available at Nikon D3100 Gallery & Sony H20 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera frequently, you'll have to consider its weight and size. The Nikon D3100 provides exterior dimensions of 124mm x 96mm x 75mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 3.0") and a weight of 505 grams (1.11 lbs) whilst the Sony H20 has specifications of 107mm x 69mm x 47mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.9") with a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs).

Check the Nikon D3100 versus Sony H20 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the D3100 compared to the H20.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the D3100 and H20 is 68 and 87 respectively.

Generally, it can be difficult to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions simply by checking specs. The image below may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the D3100 and H20.

All in all, both the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The D3100 with its larger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field simpler and the Nikon D3100 will resolve extra detail having an extra 4MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images a little more aggressively. The fresher D3100 will have a benefit in sensor tech.