Differences between Nikon D5200 and Nikon D7100
Nikon D5200 vs. Nikon D7100
The Nikon D5200, released in late 2012, and the Nikon D7100, released in early 2013, are both F-mount DSLR cameras equipped with a 24.1-megapixel DX-format sensor.[1][2] While they share the same sensor resolution and format, the D7100 is positioned as a higher-end enthusiast model with a more robust feature set compared to the upper entry-level D5200.[3][4] Key differences lie in their autofocus systems, build quality, and control layouts.
One of the most significant distinctions is the autofocus system. The D7100 incorporates a more advanced 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors.[5] This provides faster and more accurate focusing, especially in challenging light and with moving subjects. The D5200 uses a 39-point system with 9 cross-type sensors.[4]
Physically, the D7100 is larger, heavier, and features weather and dust resistance, owing to its magnesium alloy top and rear covers. The D5200 is lighter and more compact but lacks the same level of durability. Another external difference is the D5200's vari-angle LCD screen, which can be articulated for flexible shooting angles, a feature the D7100's fixed screen does not offer.
For controls, the D7100 provides dual command dials, a dedicated AF-ON button, and a top-panel LCD for quick access to settings, catering to more experienced photographers. It also includes a built-in focus motor, allowing autofocus with older AF Nikkor lenses.[5] The D5200 relies more on a single command dial and menu-based adjustments.
Comparison Table
| Category | Nikon D5200 | Nikon D7100 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 24.1 MP DX-Format CMOS[2] | 24.1 MP DX-Format CMOS (No Optical Low-Pass Filter) |
| Autofocus System | 39-point AF with 9 cross-type sensors[4] | 51-point AF with 15 cross-type sensors |
| Viewfinder | Optical (pentamirror) with 95% coverage[5] | Optical (pentaprism) with 100% coverage |
| LCD Screen | 3.0-inch, 921k-dot Vari-Angle[4] | 3.2-inch, 1,229k-dot Fixed |
| Continuous Shooting | 5 frames per second[4] | 6 frames per second (7 fps in 1.3x crop mode) |
| Max. Shutter Speed | 1/4000 sec | 1/8000 sec |
| Body & Weather Sealing | No weather sealing[1] | Magnesium alloy top/rear covers, dust and weather sealed |
| Storage | Single SD card slot[3] | Dual SD card slots[3] |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | Approx. 500 shots | Approx. 950 shots |
| Weight (Body Only) | 505 g[4] | 675 g |
The D7100's sensor notably lacks an optical low-pass filter (OLPF). The removal of this filter allows for capturing finer detail and increased sharpness, a feature typically found in higher-end cameras of that era. Both cameras utilize an EXPEED 3 image processor.[1]
In terms of video, both cameras can record Full HD 1080p footage. However, the D7100 offers more advanced video features, including uncompressed HDMI output and a headphone jack for monitoring audio.[5] The D7100's dual SD card slots also provide greater storage flexibility for both stills and video.[3]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "apotelyt.com". Retrieved January 29, 2026.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "nikonusa.com". Retrieved January 29, 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 "nikonusa.com". Retrieved January 29, 2026.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 "digicamdb.com". Retrieved January 29, 2026.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 "dpreview.com". Retrieved January 29, 2026.
