Nikon D5100 (2011)

A mid-level consumer DSLR camera released by Nikon in 2011, featuring a 16.2-megapixel APS-C sensor and full HD video recording.

Overview

The Nikon D5100 is a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera introduced by Nikon in 2011 as a successor to the D5000. Designed for mid-level consumers, it combines a high-resolution sensor with advanced video capabilities and a vari-angle LCD monitor for flexible composition. Announced on April 5, 2011, the D5100 was positioned as an enthusiast-friendly DSLR with manual controls and expanded ISO sensitivity, including extended boost levels up to ISO 25600.

Specifications

Product type	mid-level consumer DSLR camera
Effective pixels	16.2 megapixels
Sensor type	CMOS
Sensor size	APS-C (23.6 x 15.7 mm)
Processor	Expeed 2
ISO range	100–6400, expandable to 12800 and 25600
Autofocus points	11 (with 3D tracking)
Video recording	1080p at 30/25/24 fps, 720p at 30/25 fps, 640x424 at 30/25 fps (MPEG-4/H.264)
LCD monitor	3.0-inch, 921,000-dot, side-articulated vari-angle
Announcement date	April 5, 2011
Original price	$799.95 (body only)

Context

The Nikon D5100 replaced the Nikon D5000 and was announced exactly two years after its predecessor. It continued Nikon’s line of consumer-focused DSLRs with enhanced imaging performance and video features.