What is the Difference Between Nikon D5300 and D5500?

06/21/2025 • Giovanni Medeiros

The Nikon D5300 and D5500 are both DSLR cameras that share many similarities. However, there are some differences between the two models:

  1. Size and weight: The Nikon D5500 is slightly smaller and thinner than the D5300, with dimensions of 124 x 97 x 60 mm compared to 136 x 102 x 76 mm, and a weight difference of approximately 60g.
  2. Raw file encoding: The D5500 has improved encoding of raw files over the D5300, which results in slightly higher bit-resolution at low illuminance levels.
  3. Expanded ISO range: The D5500 has an expanded ISO range compared to the D5300, which allows for better performance in low-light conditions.
  4. GPS: The D5300 has a built-in GPS receiver, which is not present in the D5500.
  5. Touchscreen: The D5500 features a touchscreen, which is not available on the D5300.
  6. Battery life: The D5500 has a slightly better battery life than the D5300.

For astrophotography, the performance of both cameras is quite similar, as they share the same sensor. However, the D5500 may have a slight edge due to its improved raw file encoding and expanded ISO range.

Comparative Table: Nikon D5300 vs D5500

Here is a table comparing the differences between the Nikon D5300 and D5500:

Feature Nikon D5300 Nikon D5500
Launch Date October 2013 January 2015
Launch Price USD 799 USD 899
Sensor CMOS, 23.5 x 15.6 mm, 366.6 mm², 28.2 mm diagonal CMOS, 23.5 x 15.6 mm, 366.6 mm², 28.2 mm diagonal
Resolution 24 Megapixels, 6000 x 4000 pixels 24 Megapixels, 6000 x 4000 pixels
Pixel Pitch 3.91 μm 3.91 μm
Pixel Density 6.55 MP/cm² 6.55 MP/cm²
Touchscreen No Yes
Viewfinder Optical, 95% field of view, 0.57x magnification Optical, 95% field of view, 0.57x magnification

Both the Nikon D5300 and D5500 are DSLR cameras equipped with an APS-C sensor and offer a resolution of 24 megapixels. They have the same sensor size, crop factor, and pixel density. However, the D5500 has a touchscreen, which can be particularly helpful for setting the focus point, while the D5300 has a conventional panel. The D5500 is also slightly more expensive, with a launch price of USD 899 compared to USD 799 for the D5300.

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