The D3300 I can compare it with the previous model, the D3200 and with the next largest, the D5300. Certainly the differences from the D5300 to greater than D3200. This is intentional, because understandably there should be reasons to pick up the more expensive model. And there are indeed. And rather obvious. This starts with the fact that the D3300 has a permanently installed display. A clearly good, but it is one that is not mounted. When D3300 is also dispensed with an integrated GPS and the Wi-Fi functionality. Both can be retrofitted, although by external devices, but who that contemplates, should be equal to View the D5300. For me the first point (display) is an important, the other two points are clearly subordinate.
Slightly less obvious are the differences during AF. This is the predecessor unchanged and inferior to the D5300. (Only 11 areas in the D3300.) Still, I come only on rare occasions to really trouble focusing, but they are there. And since the big sister is superior. For this is incorporated in the D3300, the same processor (EXPEED 4) as the larger models. This has a positive effect on the speed. So the number of frames per second is increased from 4 to 5. (For me, rather irrelevant, because I mainly design, landscape or portrait photograph for photographers with other priorities - Sports, Animals, Children -. Interesting but maybe)
The image quality I find in all of these Nikon models as good to very good. However, I am also not a professional and rate images on full-size screens, they do not magnify on posters or even posters. Positive of professionals to the elimination of the low-pass filter is mentioned, which should lead to greater clarity. The MP 24 are identical to the other models (including the D7100). The camera has some problems even with large contrasts (I can not say that about all DSLR that I know of), makes a relatively balanced images (contrast, color), if one does not intervene manually.
The feel is great, the surface grip and the housing total so compact, especially with the new kit lens Nikon AF-S Nikkor DX 18-55mm 1: 3.5-5.6G VR II that the size disadvantage against some system cameras almost disappears. The control layout is nearly identical to the D3200, is different because of the different display technology from the D5300. Added is the rotary multi selector adjustment: EFFECTS. This gives you direct access to special function for particularly rich colors, pop, miniature or toy effects, selective color or low- and high-key exposures, to name a few.
It's hard to express clear recommendations for one or the other model. If money plays the main role, you should resort to a camera that is some time in the market, so for example the D3200 in the entry-level segment. Anyone who wants to take advantage of the improved image quality and speed, but at a moving display, WLAN and GPS (integrated both) can do without, is absolutely right in D3300. And who wants to have the whole package, the D5300 concerned. A mistake one makes in my view none of these cameras.