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No: the Nikon D5100 is a DX-format camera, not a full-frame (FX) camera. Nikon specifies a 23.6 × 15.6 mm sensor, smaller than the traditional 35 mm frame used as the full-frame reference.
What sensor format does the Nikon D5100 use?
Nikon identifies the D5100’s sensor format as DX and lists its dimensions as 23.6 × 15.6 mm. Nikon describes FX as matching the size of a traditional 35 mm still-image frame, which is the full-frame comparison. The D5100 therefore is not an FX or full-frame body.
See Nikon’s D5100 specifications and DX and FX format explanation.
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Nikon describes the D5100’s DX angle of view as approximately 1.5× the lens focal length. This is a field-of-view comparison: the lens’s physical focal length does not change. The DX sensor records a narrower portion of the scene than an FX sensor would with the same lens.
#1 Best Overall
- Refurbished Certification: Product has been professionally tested, cleaned, inspected and repackaged to work like new
- Camera Specifications: Features a 16.2MP Digital SLR sensor with an included 18-55mm VR lens for high-quality photography
- Package Contents: Camera comes with all relevant accessories needed for immediate use after unboxing
- Image Quality: Advanced CMOS sensor delivers exceptional detail and superior low-light performance for stunning photographs
- Versatile Lens: 18-55mm VR lens provides vibration reduction technology for sharp images across various shooting conditions
Nikon’s D5100 manual explains the approximate 1.5× DX angle-of-view factor.
Does an FX lens make the D5100 full frame?
No. Nikon says a full-frame NIKKOR lens can be attached to a DX camera, but the camera remains DX; the view appears magnified by approximately 1.5× compared with FX. Lens compatibility and sensor format are separate: mounting an FX lens does not enlarge or replace the camera’s sensor.
Rank #2
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, and may arrive in a generic box
Nikon explains this distinction in its DX and FX format guide.
Which D5100 specifications confirm the format?
| Specification | Nikon’s listing |
|---|---|
| Sensor format | DX |
| Sensor dimensions | 23.6 × 15.6 mm |
| Effective pixels | 16.2 million |
| Lens mount | Nikon F mount |
Nikon’s D5100 specifications provide these figures. Nikon introduced the model as a DX-format digital SLR in its April 5, 2011 announcement.
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Best Value
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box. Only select sellers who maintain a high performance bar may offer Certified Refurbished products on Amazon.com
- 3-inch, 921,000-dot Super-Density horizontal type Vari-Angle LCD Monitor
- In-camera Special Effects Mode and HDR (High Dynamic Range)
- Stunning Full 1080p HD Movies with Full Time Autofocus
- High Resolution 16.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor
Rank #4
- Bundle Items Include: Nikon D5100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens, 64GB Card, Camera Bag, Lens Filter Kit, Cleaning Kit, 55mm Lens Hood, Card Wallet, Card Reader, 55mm UV Filter, Cap Keeper
- The Nikon D5100 is built around a 16.2MP DX-format CMOS sensor engineered to capture crisp detail, balanced contrast, and natural color depth. This sensor provides noticeably higher image quality than compact cameras, producing clean results across bright daylight and low-light settings. Ideal for travel, portraits, everyday shooting, and artistic photography, it supports consistent performance as skills develop.
- Included 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6G VR lens covers wide-angle to standard focal lengths, making it suitable for landscapes, interiors, portraits, and daily photography. Nikon Vibration Reduction technology helps reduce blur caused by hand movement, allowing sharper images when shooting handheld. Lightweight and reliable, this lens supports learning composition while remaining useful for long-term, general-purpose use.
- The articulating vari-angle LCD screen enables flexible composition from high, low, or unconventional perspectives without strain. This design is especially useful for macro work, overhead shots, video recording, and self-framing. Compared to fixed displays, the adjustable screen expands creative control and improves usability in real-world environments where traditional viewing angles are limiting.
- Full HD video recording allows smooth transitions between still photography and video creation using one camera system. Intuitive button layout, guide modes, and accessible manual controls support both first-time DSLR users and advancing photographers. The balanced body design remains comfortable during extended shooting sessions, offering dependable performance without unnecessary complexity.
Rank #3
- 16.2MP DX format CMOS sensor
- 11 point AF system (with 3D tracking)
- 4 frames per second continuous shooting
- 1080p HD video
- 14 bit Raw shooting
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