D3000 or D3100, which to get?

[Rickjr13]

I am a beginner and I had a question about which camera to get. I understand that the D3100 is the better camera but as far as the price points go, I can get a D3000 for $320 or the D3100 for $510. Give me your guys opinions. Thanks in advance.

 

[zabulondesigns]

I like the d3100

 

[BJF]

Do you care the HD movie function? Here you are two links for your reference.

Nikon D3100

Nikon D3000

 

[Bubbles22]

I have the D3100...I love it for learning but I wish I would have gotten a better camera that had the focus motor inside the camera body. Just know that it does not so you can only buy the AF-S or AF-I lens. It just limits you a bit more.

 

[Drake]

The major difference between the two cameras is the sensor - the D3000 uses an old CCD, once used in the D200, D80, D40x, D60, and about a milion of entry level Sony models. Not really up to modern standards when it comes to low light performance. The D3100 on the other hand has a nice CMOS sensor, which up to ISO 1600 is just as good as any other APS-C sensor on the market. It has also the video mode of you're interested. But if the change is worth $200 to you, that's really something you have to decide.

A quick advice though. If you do not own any Nikon lens, you could also take a look at the entry level Canons. The Rebel XS should cost about the same as the D3000, and what you get is a CMOS sensor, not much worse than the D3100's, limited to ISO 1600 though. The Rebel XS also focuses with any modern Canon/Sigma/Tamron lens, has more controls (a dedicated ISO button, no idea how Nikon can make a DSLR without one), Live view if you're interested, and a few other things the D3000 lacks - exposure bracketing, mirror lock-up etc. Not saying that the D3000 is a bad camera, but you get more for your money with a Rebel XS. That's why I have one.

And if you're thinking about the D3100, be sure to take a look at the Rebel T3. The difference isn't as big here, but again - the autofocus capabilities, exposure bracketing, external controls make the T3 worth considering.

 

[NikonME]

A good link to view.. Click Here

 

[KmH]

The T3 does not have Spot metering mode, but both the Nikon cameras have Spot metering.

 

[Drake]

The T3 does not have Spot metering mode, but both the Nikon cameras have Spot metering.

True. It has Partial metering mode though, which is essentially the same thing, except if covers 10% of the frame, instead of the 2-3% in case of Spot. For me that's enough because I use that mostly for portraiture, but some might find it a bit limiting.

 

[Rickjr13]

Thanks for the input everyone. I actually picked up a Canon T3 and had it for a few days. Took great shots, was pretty pleased with it but returned it. Mainly had a problem with the lack of autofocus in movie mode. I usually wouldn't have minded so much but I have a 6 year old and a one year old, so the ability to take movies on the spot was pretty important. I picked up a Nikon D5100 for $740 and I am very pleased with it so far, looking forward to getting some great shot of Hawaii while I am still stationed out here. Thanks again for the advice.