Nikon D40 vs Sony A300

Here is a in depth analysis of the Nikon D40 vs Sony A300, both Entry-Level DSLR digital cameras by brands Nikon and Sony. There is a noticeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the D40 (6MP) and A300 (10MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor size (APS-C).

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The D40 was manufactured 13 months earlier than the A300 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before we go into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the D40 matches up versus the A300 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon D40 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A300. The entire galleries are viewable at Nikon D40 Gallery & Sony A300 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera regularly, you have to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon D40 provides outside measurements of 124mm x 94mm x 64mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.5") accompanied by a weight of 522 grams (1.15 lbs) and the Sony A300 has specifications of 131mm x 99mm x 75mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") with a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Check the Nikon D40 vs Sony A300 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the D40 compared to the A300.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the D40 and A300 is 71 and 64 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to see the difference between sensor sizing purely by looking at specs. The photograph underneath will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the D40 and A300.

All in all, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You can count on the Sony A300 to resolve greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The older D40 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.