Nikon D60 Vs Nikon D3400: A Comparison Of Two Popular Dslr Cameras

The Nikon D60 and Nikon D3400 are two popular entry-level DSLR cameras that have captured the attention of aspiring photographers. While both cameras share the Nikon name, there are several key differences that set them apart. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the specifications, features, and performance of the Nikon D60 and Nikon D3400 to help you make an informed decision about which camera suits your needs and budget.

Sensor and Image Quality

1. Resolution: The Nikon D60 features a 10.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D3400 boasts a higher resolution of 24.2 megapixels. This means that the D3400 can capture images with more detail and clarity, allowing you to produce larger prints or crop your photos more aggressively without sacrificing quality.

2. Image Quality: In terms of image quality, both cameras perform admirably, producing sharp and vibrant photos. However, the D3400’s higher resolution sensor gives it a slight edge in terms of capturing fine details and resolving intricate textures.

3. Low-Light Performance: The D3400 has a slight advantage in low-light conditions due to its higher ISO range (100-25600) compared to the D60’s ISO range (100-3200). This means that the D3400 can capture usable images in darker environments without introducing excessive noise.

Autofocus and Performance

1. Autofocus System: The Nikon D60 employs an 11-point autofocus system, while the Nikon D3400 features a more advanced 11-point autofocus system with 3D tracking. This gives the D3400 faster and more accurate autofocus performance, particularly when tracking moving subjects.

2. Continuous Shooting: The Nikon D60 can shoot continuously at 3 frames per second (fps), while the Nikon D3400 offers a faster continuous shooting speed of 5 fps. This makes the D3400 a better choice for capturing fast-paced action or sequences of moving subjects.

3. Buffer Capacity: The D60 has a buffer capacity of 6 RAW images or 100 JPEG images, while the D3400 can capture up to 15 RAW images or 100 JPEG images before the buffer fills up. This gives the D3400 a slight advantage when shooting bursts of photos.

Design and Handling

1. Body and Build: The Nikon D60 has a more compact and lightweight body compared to the Nikon D3400. It weighs approximately 495 grams, while the D3400 weighs 445 grams. Both cameras feature a durable plastic construction, but the D60 feels slightly more solid in the hand.

2. Ergonomics: The D60 and D3400 share a similar overall design, with a comfortable grip and well-placed controls. However, the D3400 has a slightly larger grip, which may be more comfortable for photographers with larger hands.

3. LCD Screen: The Nikon D60 features a 2.5-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 230,000 dots. The Nikon D3400 has a larger 3-inch LCD screen with a higher resolution of 921,000 dots. The D3400’s larger and higher-resolution screen makes it easier to compose and review your shots.

Video Recording

1. Video Resolution: The Nikon D60 can record videos at a maximum resolution of 720p (1280×720) at 24 fps. The Nikon D3400 offers Full HD (1920×1080) video recording at 60 fps, providing significantly better video quality and smoothness.

2. Autofocus During Video: The Nikon D60 does not have continuous autofocus during video recording, which means that you need to manually adjust the focus while shooting videos. The Nikon D3400 features continuous autofocus during video recording, allowing you to keep your subject in focus even when it’s moving.

3. External Microphone Input: Both the Nikon D60 and Nikon D3400 lack an external microphone input, which limits your options for capturing high-quality audio during video recording.

Connectivity and Battery Life

1. Connectivity: The Nikon D60 and Nikon D3400 both offer USB 2.0 connectivity for transferring images and videos to your computer. They also have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to wirelessly transfer images to your smartphone or tablet.

2. Battery Life: The Nikon D60 uses the EN-EL9 battery, which provides approximately 570 shots per charge. The Nikon D3400 uses the EN-EL14a battery, which offers a slightly longer battery life of approximately 1200 shots per charge.

Which Camera is Right for You?

The Nikon D60 and Nikon D3400 are both capable entry-level DSLR cameras that offer a range of features and capabilities. However, the Nikon D3400 has several advantages over the D60, including a higher resolution sensor, faster autofocus, a larger and higher-resolution LCD screen, Full HD video recording with continuous autofocus, and a longer battery life.

If you’re a beginner photographer looking for a camera that offers good image quality, basic features, and a compact design, the Nikon D60 is a solid choice. However, if you’re looking for a more advanced camera with better image quality, faster performance, and more video capabilities, the Nikon D3400 is the better option.

What People Want to Know

1. Q: Which camera has a higher resolution sensor?
A: The Nikon D3400 has a higher resolution sensor (24.2 megapixels) compared to the Nikon D60 (10.2 megapixels).

2. Q: Which camera has faster autofocus?
A: The Nikon D3400 has a faster and more accurate autofocus system compared to the Nikon D60.

3. Q: Which camera has a larger LCD screen?
A: The Nikon D3400 has a larger 3-inch LCD screen compared to the Nikon D60’s 2.5-inch LCD screen.

4. Q: Which camera has better video recording capabilities?
A: The Nikon D3400 offers Full HD (1920×1080) video recording at 60 fps, while the Nikon D60 is limited to 720p (1280×720) video recording at 24 fps.

5. Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Nikon D3400 has a longer battery life (approximately 1200 shots per charge) compared to the Nikon D60 (approximately 570 shots per charge).