Nikon D5100 vs Olympus E-400

Below is a detailed review of the Nikon D5100 and Olympus E-400, both Entry-Level DSLR cameras by brands Nikon and Olympus. There is a sizeable difference among the resolutions of the D5100 (16MP) and E-400 (10MP) and the D5100 (APS-C) and E-400 (Four Thirds) provide different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The D5100 was released 4 years later than the E-400 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before getting straight to a complete comparison, here is a simple overview of how the D5100 grades vs the E-400 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon D5100 and Olympus E-400. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon D5100 Gallery and Olympus E-400 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera, you will need to consider its weight and size. The Nikon D5100 offers external dimensions of 128mm x 97mm x 79mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.1") with a weight of 560 grams (1.23 lbs) while the Olympus E-400 has specifications of 130mm x 91mm x 53mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.1") along with a weight of 435 grams (0.96 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon D5100 and Olympus E-400 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the D5100 versus the E-400.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the D5100 and E-400 is 66 and 77 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to picture the difference in sensor measurements only by viewing a spec sheet. The photograph below should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the D5100 and E-400.

Clearly, the two cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The D5100 because of its bigger sensor is going to make getting bokeh simpler and the Nikon D5100 will render greater detail as a result of its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The younger D5100 provides an edge with regard to sensor tech.