Nikon D5300
Nikon · DSLR · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video

Score Breakdown
Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.
Independent Lab Scores
General | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon |
| Model | D5300 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2013 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | October 17, 2013 |
| Camera type | |
| Camera size | 125 x 98 x 76 mm |
| Camera weight | 480 g |
Optics65/100 | |
About the OpticsNikon D5300 Overview and OpticsThe optics of the Nikon D5300 receives a score of 65/100. This camera features 24.2 megapixels, a shooting speed of 5 frames per second, and a CMOS sensor. The Expeed 4 processor contributes to its performance, while the DXOMARK score for the sensor is 83. The sensor size is an APS-C, and the lens mount is a Nikon F DX. However, the camera lacks image stabilization and has an aspect ratio of 3:2. In the current market, these specifications provide decent performance for amateur photographers and casual users. The 24.2-megapixel resolution ensures high-quality images, and the APS-C sensor size captures a good amount of detail. The Expeed 4 processor facilitates fast image processing, and the Nikon F DX lens mount offers compatibility with a wide range of lenses. Despite the lack of image stabilization, the Nikon D5300 still delivers respectable image quality and performance. Its specifications make it a suitable camera for individuals seeking reliable performance without the need for advanced features. | |
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6000 x 4000 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS |
Sensor size ⓘThe sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 15.6 x 23.5 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 5 fps045 |
Lens mount ⓘThe lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Nikon F DX |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Expeed 4 |
Aspect ratio ⓘThe aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. | |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 10030200 |
Max ISO ⓘRefers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 128003003280000 |
Min ISO (expanded) ⓘExpanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 10030200 |
Max ISO (expanded) ⓘExpanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 256003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 3044080 |
Max shutter speed ⓘThe maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 400080032000 |
Autofocus points ⓘAutofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 390300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘIn-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | No |
Viewfinder type ⓘThe viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Optical (pentamirror) |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A |
Video70/100 | |
About the VideoThe Nikon D5300 receives a video score of 70 out of 100. This camera offers Full HD video recording with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It supports a top video frame rate of 60 frames per second, allowing for smooth footage capture. Additionally, the D5300 includes built-in time-lapse functionality, providing creative opportunities for users. When comparing the Nikon D5300’s video capabilities to other cameras in today’s market, it provides a solid performance for its price range. However, it lacks the 4K resolution found in more advanced models. Despite this limitation, the D5300 remains a suitable option for casual videographers or those on a budget who prioritize high-quality Full HD video. The Nikon D5300 delivers respectable video performance, but may not satisfy users seeking cutting-edge features. Its Full HD resolution and time-lapse capabilities make it a reliable choice for those who prioritize these aspects and do not require 4K video. | |
Video ⓘIndicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
Max video resolution ⓘThe best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. | |
Max video format ⓘVideo resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 1920 x 1080 |
Max video frame rate ⓘHow many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 60 fps |
Timelapse built in ⓘA built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. | |
Video file format ⓘDifferent cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MOV |
Features46/100 | |
About the FeaturesThe Nikon D5300 scores 46/100 for its features, reflecting a decent range of capabilities. The camera offers a 3.2-inch screen with a resolution of 1,037,000 dots. However, it does not have a touchscreen. The presence of a flip screen enhances its usability for various shooting angles. Additionally, the D5300 is equipped with GPS and WiFi for easy geotagging and wireless data transfer. The absence of Bluetooth is a limitation in terms of connectivity options. Comparing these specifications to other cameras in today’s market, the Nikon D5300 holds its ground, but it may not be the most advanced option available. The lack of a touchscreen and Bluetooth may deter some users seeking more modern features. The D5300 remains a reliable choice for those who prioritize GPS and WiFi capabilities, along with a flip screen for versatile shooting. | |
Builtin flash ⓘA built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. | |
External flash ⓘExternal flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. | |
GPS ⓘGPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. | |
Weather sealing ⓘWeather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. | No |
| Screen type | LCD |
Touch screen ⓘTouchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. | No |
| Screen size | 3.2" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 10370001150001500000 |
Flip screen ⓘA flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. | |
Live view ⓘLive View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. | |
Wi-Fi ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. | |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. | No |
Storage & Battery29/100 | |
About the Storage & BatteryThe Nikon D5300 receives a storage and battery score of 29/100. This camera has a single memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. In today’s market, many cameras offer dual card slots, providing versatility and increased storage capacity. Regarding battery life, the D5300 can capture up to 600 shots with its EN-EL14a battery. This performance is average among modern cameras. However, the D5300 lacks USB charging capabilities, which is a drawback for on-the-go photographers who desire convenience. The D5300’s storage and battery capabilities are satisfactory but not exceptional. It may suit the needs of casual photographers, but professionals may seek more advanced options. | |
| Memory card | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
| Dual memory card slots | No |
| Battery type | EN-EL14a |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 600 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | No |