2 replies to this topic

[neilgow]

I've been using my D3100 for nearly 11 years now (after my first D40X was stolen) and have upgraded with a refurbished D5300 to access the later processor and focussing capabilities. I assumed all lenses were cross compatible but it seems not to be the case.

 

I've been using a Nikkor 18-105mm AF-S and a Sigma 70-300mm Nikon F mount lens with my D3100.

D5300 has come with a Nikkor 18-55mm lens which looks like an updated version of the original 18-55mm kit lens but is badged AF-P rather than AF-S.

 

The 18-55mm AF-P will autofocus with the D5300 but not the D3100.

The 18-105mm AF-S will autofocus with both bodies.

The Sigma 70-200mm lens will autofocus with D3100 but not the D5300.

It seems strange that if one lens is compatible with both bodies then all of them aren't.

 

Is this a compatibility issue or is there some other factor coming into play? One of my reasons for buying a secondhand D and not going down the Z route was becasue I didn't want to have to replace lenses (especially the Sigma) as well.

 

The contact points on the two Nikon lens look identical. The Sigma is a bit different as it has 10 rather than 8 (I guess for other manufacturer's cameras).

[Jerry_]

Both cameras have a Nikon F mount (so you will be able to attach the same type of lenses) and none of the two has a build-in motor.

The reasons for some lenses behaving differently on the two cameras:
- (while) AF-S lenses are fully compatible with both models
- AF-P lenses are a more recent design and need a firmware that supports them. Such firmware is only available starting with the D3300 (Nikon | Shop & Explore Cameras, Lenses, and Accessories)
- Sigma and other third party lenses may or may not support both cameras. You will need to check with the lens producer if they can update the chip in your lens to work with the more recent camera, as such cameras may send additional signals to the lens, that it dorsn’t understand

[neilgow]

Thanks Jerry, for the really helpful advice. I contacted Sigma UK Service & Support and I can send the lens to them for a firmware update at a cost of just £15 including return postage.