Nikon D3300 Key facts

Image sensor

Like the D3200, it has a 24.2-megapixel image sensor, but this time the optical low pass filter has been removed. As in only the D5300 in this group, the image processor is a later-generation EXPEED 4 rather than EXPEED 3 module.

Autofocus

The D3300 uses the same Multi-Cam 1000 autofocus module as the D3200. This gives 11 autofocus points in total. The central point is cross-type, so can resolve detail in both vertical and horizontal planes, enabling more accurate performance in challenging situations.

Continuous shooting

At five frames per second, the D3300 beats the D3200 and matches the D5200 and D5300 for maximum burst rate. One consequence of having a faster drive rate than the D3200 is that the buffer can only accommodate 11 shots in RAW quality mode, rather than the older camera’s 18.

Metering sensor

Another similarity to the D3200 is that the D3300 has the same 3D Colour Matrix II metering system with a 420-pixel module. However, metering proved more accurate and more consistent in our tests, compared not only with the D3200, but also with the D7100.

Construction

The polycarbonate body shell uses the same one-piece monocoque construction as the D5300. Despite it being essentially the same size as the D3200, the weight is reduced from 505g to just 460g. Even so, the D3300 body feels reassuringly robust and solid.

Need to know

The Guide mode that proved so popular in the D3200 and preceding Nikon entrylevel cameras, including the D3000 and D3100, has been enhanced in the D3300. It now includes a ‘Retouch’ section to help with editing pictures in-camera, and for applying special effects.