Which to Buy: Nikon D5200 vs D5300 Comparison

February 2019

The D5200 is 12 years old while the D5300 is 11 years old. These cameras may seem similar at first glance but there are some key differences the buyer needs to be aware of before making a decision.

The similarities between these two cameras are:

Compact DSLR design
DX/APS-C crop sensor
24 megapixel sensors
Supports both 12-bit and 14-bit RAW images
Supports JPEG image format
UHS-I SDXC memory card compatibility
Same frames per second (5 fps)
matrix, center-weighted and spot metering
39 autofocus points (with 9 cross type)
High dynamic range mode
30-1/4000th sec. mechanical shutter speed
Bulb shutter
"Time" shutter
Fully articulated monitor
Dedicated Fn (function) button
Hotshoe
External microphone jack
HDMI jack
Built-in flash w/GN 43 ft.
1/200th sec. flash sync speed
90% optical viewfinder coverage
Live View
Reliance upon Nikon WMU (Wireless Mobile Utility) for communication with smart device
Compatibility with Nikon F-mount lenses

The advantages the D5200 has over the D5300 are:

Less expensive on the used market

The advantages the D5300 has over the D5200 are:

No anti-aliasing filter for sharper images
Native ISO 100-12800 vs 100-6400
Longer battery life at 600 shots vs 500 shots
EXPEED 4 image processor vs EXPEED 3
1080p video at 60 fps vs 30 fps
3.2" 1037k-dot TFT LCD monitor vs 3" 921k-dot
GPS built-in
Built-in WiFi to pair with a smart device vs external WU-1a WiFi adapter
Weight: 530g (1 lb. 2.7 oz) vs 555g (1 lb. 3.6 oz.)
Dimensions: 4.9 x 3.9 x 3.0 in. vs 5.1 x 3.9 x 3.1 in.

Neither camera has:

IBIS
Built-in NFC to pair the camera with a smartphone
Bluetooth to pair the camera with a smartphone
Touchscreen monitor
4K UHD video
Slow motion video
Pentaprism Viewfinder
Dual card slots
Top-side control panel
Panorama Mode
On sensor phase detect AF for video
Headphone jack
Auto FP High-Speed flash sync
Highlight-weighted metering
100% viewfinder coverage
Support for the TIFF format
Electronic viewfinder
Electronic shutter
Optional battery grip
Timelapse movies
Compatibility with Nikon Z-mount lenses
Eye AF

Additional Notes

The D5200 is compatible with AF-P Nikkor lenses but it cannot turn off the VR.

If the D5300 can be budgeted then it clearly is the better choice.

See these comparisons: