Nikon D5300 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR
Quick take
The Nikon D5300 is an APS-C DSLR built for photographers who want DSLR controls and strong image quality without a heavy body. It offers a 39-point autofocus system, 5 fps continuous shooting, built-in Wi‑Fi and GPS, and a 3.2-inch vari-angle LCD that makes shooting and reviewing easier. The biggest buying caveat is the DX (APS-C) sensor format, plus video autofocus can feel less straightforward while you learn.
Pros and cons
Pros
- 24.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor without an optical low-pass filter for crisp detail (popular upgrade hook).
- 39-point AF with 3D tracking, plus 5 fps continuous shooting for everyday action and fast-moving moments.
- Vari-angle 3.2-inch LCD makes low-angle and crowd-overhead shots more manageable.
- Built-in Wi‑Fi (sharing and remote control) is useful for quick transfers.
Cons
- DX format is not full-frame, so it will not deliver the same look and low-light headroom as full-frame bodies.
- Video focusing can be tough to control depending on your shooting style and expectations.
- Lens system costs can add up, especially if you later expand beyond the 18-55mm kit.
What buyers think
Buyer feedback is generally positive around image sharpness and how much easier the camera feels versus older entry-level models. Many comments highlight the autofocus coverage (39 points) and the jump in detail when pixel-peeping or when enlarging for editing. Users also tend to like the physical size and grip for a DSLR, the usability of the vari-angle LCD for stills and video, and the practicality of built-in Wi‑Fi for transferring photos quickly. Battery life is described as solid for typical shooting. The main recurring theme that comes up as a tradeoff is the DX-format limitation, plus some learning required for video focus control.
Who this camera is best for
- Beginner to enthusiast upgraders who want better sharpness and more advanced AF than older entry-level DSLRs.
- Travel and everyday shooters who want a lighter DSLR body with flexible shooting angles (vari-angle LCD) and built-in Wi‑Fi.
- Photographers who like editing and want RAW options (12- or 14-bit compressed RAW) for post-processing control.
- People who shoot mixed subjects such as portraits, scenery, pets, and occasional action where faster focusing helps.
Key features that matter in real use
Image quality and sensor design
The 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS sensor, paired with the lack of an optical low-pass filter, is a big part of the appeal for buyers coming from older sensors. In practice, that translates to a “detail-forward” look that tends to benefit sharpening and editing workflows, especially when you zoom in during review.
Autofocus, tracking, and continuous shooting
The D5300 uses a 39-point AF system with 3D tracking, designed to help maintain focus as subjects move through the frame. With up to 5 frames per second continuous shooting, it is a capable option for casual action, pets, and moments where timing matters, without stepping into higher-end bodies.
Vari-angle 3.2-inch LCD for easier composing
The 3.2-inch vari-angle display is frequently called out as genuinely useful. It helps when shooting from lower angles, when framing over a crowd, and when doing video at odd heights. If you like experimenting with composition, the ability to change the screen position is a practical quality-of-life feature.
Built-in wi‑fi and GPS
Built-in Wi‑Fi supports sharing and remote camera control, which can speed up the “shoot, review, and send” loop. GPS adds location tagging for those who document where photos were taken.
Video capability, with a learning curve
The camera supports HD video up to 1080 at 60p/30p/24p, plus 720 modes including 60p and 50p (H.264/MPEG-4). Still, buyers note that video focusing can be tricky to master. If your main priority is run-and-gun video with consistently smooth focusing, you may need practice, and a different camera type may better match your workflow.
Pros and cons in plain language
Pros
- Detail and sharpness feel noticeable for stills, especially if you edit or crop.
- Autofocus system is strong for the class, with 39-point coverage and 3D tracking.
- Works well for DSLR beginners, with a UI that helps people learn common settings.
- Practical connectivity via built-in Wi‑Fi for quick transfers and remote control.
Cons
- DX-format tradeoff vs full frame: expect different low-light character and depth-of-field behavior than full-frame cameras.
- Video autofocus may not feel effortless until you dial in technique.
- Total lens cost can rise if you want specialized focal lengths beyond the kit.
Price and availability
Availability can change quickly, and some listings indicate limited stock. To see the most current price and options for the kit, check the button below.
Is it worth it?
The Nikon D5300 with the 18-55mm kit is worth considering if you want an easy-to-live-with APS-C DSLR that delivers strong stills detail, offers a capable autofocus system, and includes built-in Wi‑Fi plus a vari-angle LCD for flexible shooting. If you are primarily focused on video with predictable autofocus, or you know you want full-frame performance, you may want to look at alternatives that better match those priorities.
FAQ
Does the nikon D5300 shoot RAW?
Yes. It supports RAW and RAW+JPEG, with 12- or 14-bit compressed RAW options.
What is the sensor size, and does it affect low-light performance?
The D5300 uses an APS-C (DX-format) CMOS sensor. DX sensors typically behave differently than full-frame sensors, especially for low-light and depth-of-field characteristics, so the look will not match full-frame bodies.
Is the vari-angle LCD useful for everyday shooting?
Yes. The 3.2-inch vari-angle display is designed to help with low-angle shots, overhead framing, and more flexible composition during both stills and video.
Does it have Wi‑Fi?
Yes. The camera includes built-in Wi‑Fi for sharing photos and remote camera control.
How good is the autofocus?
It includes a 39-point autofocus system with 3D tracking, which is a strong feature set for a camera in this class and helps when subjects move through the frame.
What should I know before using it for video?
It records HD video (up to 1080 at 60p/30p/24p). However, autofocus in video can take practice, so if video focusing is your top priority, consider whether your expectations match what you plan to shoot.
Specifications
| Product Title | Nikon D5300 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Auto Focus-S DX NIKKOR Zoom Lens (Black) |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Camera & Photo > Digital Cameras > DSLR Cameras |
| Brand | Nikon |
| Manufacturer | Nikon |
| Model Name | Nikon D5300 |
| Model Number | 1522 |
| Photo Sensor Size | APS-C |
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Zoom | optical |
| Screen Size | 3.2 Inches |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 1.06 Pounds |
| Compatible Mountings | Nikon F (DX), Nikon F (FX) |
| Aspect Ratio | 3:2 |
| Sensor Type | CMOS |
| File Format | JPEG: Fine, Normal, Basic, RAW: 12- or 14-bit, compressed, DPOF compatible, DCF 2.0 compliant |
| Image stabilization | No |
| Maximum Aperture | 3.5 Millimeters |
| Expanded ISO Minimum | 100 |
| Photo Sensor Resolution | 24.2 MP |
| Maximum Shutter Speed | 1/4000 Seconds |
| Minimum Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
| Exposure Control | Aperture priority (A), Automatic, Manual, Shutter-priority (S) |
| Form Factor | Compact SLR |
| Effective Still Resolution | 24.2 MP |
| Special Feature | Face Detection |
| Shooting Modes | Portrait, landscape, child, sports, close-up, night portrait, night landscape, party/indoor, beach/snow, sunset, pet portrait, candlelight and more |
Available variants
Color
- Grey
- Red
- Black
Style
- w/ 18-55mm
- Body Only
- 1523
- w/ 18-55mm + 55-300mm
- w/ 18-140mm
Set
- Base
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