new camera

[revid]

Hey guys,I own a nikon d50 and just sold it to replace it with a new one.I would like your opinion on what to buy,either the d3100,d5000 or the canont2i?I like the video aspect but mainly just like taking pics.

 

[tirediron]

Can you stretch the budget to Nikon's D7000? That is by all accounts the new star performer in the consumer line.

 

[Ken Rockwell Fan]

The D5000 is discontinued so I'd stay away from that. The D3100 is a great camera but it doesn't have a built in autofocus motor, so it's not compatible with the full range of Nikon lenses like the D50, D70, D80, D90 and new D7000. If you can't afford the new D7000 then try and find a D90 for around $650ish.

 

[revid]

thanks ,never thought about the built in motor,my d50 has autofocus,is that the same?

 

[benhasajeep]

If you still have your AF lenses from your D50 then you have lenses designed for body mounted focusing motors (if they were purchased around the same time). The newer lower end Nikons no longer have the body AF motor. A D90 would be an upgrade from your D50 and its a great camera. It is being replaced by the D7000. D90's can be purchased for a good price now. Again its a great camera.

Nikon D type lenses (or older AF lenses) require the body AF motor. Nikon AF-I, and AF-S lenses have a built in motor in the lens, and work in any of the new DSLR's (body AF motor or not).

Nikon D40, D40X, D60, D3000, D3100, D5000 require AF-I or AF-S lenses with motors to AF. They do not have body mounted AF motor drives. They can use the older AF lenses, but they will not AF.

 

[djacobox372]

On the nikon side of things, make sure you buy a camera with an AF motor. Your choices of upgrades would be, from cheapest to most expensive (used ebay prices):

$350 D80
$425 D200
$700 D90
$1300 D7000
$2000 D700

 

[revid]

thanks for the info.Now what to buy ?what would you buy considering price and what you would get for the extra dollars,a 3100 with a 18-55 and a 55-300(or a 70-300),or a d7000 with a lens.the 7000 with the same lens will cost about close to $700 or more.

 

[KmH]

The D5000 is discontinued so I'd stay away from that....

They may not be making anymore, but there are still a bunch of new D5000's for sale. Don't believe every rumor you read at NikonRumors.com. :lmao:

So, why would you stay away from it?

It's still listed on Nikon's USA web site.
http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn290/CougarWilbur/TPF/1006037106_RRC7E-L.jpg

And is still in stock at B&H.

Nikon D5000 Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-55mm VR Lens 25454

 

[revid]

first I dont like the "tilt viewer" and wanted something new.You know how technology is ,one day new, next week ,obselete.If I wanted to upgrade down the road atleast it would be still in circulation or just out.

 

[revid]

guys another question for you,some dealers are offering the 18-55 plus the 18-200 in the same package.why?also what two lens would be better to have,18-55 & 70-300,18-105 & 70-300,18-55 & 55-200 ?Wouldn't you have more telephoto range with the 70-300 as opposed to the 55-200?thers so much options out there and Iam trying to learn which is the best before I buy a new camera.I've owned a d50 for a few yrs now but still new to most of the lens lingo,lol.thanks

 

[pdq5oh]

I had a T2i and a D5000. The T2i produced really nice images and the video was great. I'd still have that camera were it not for needing better low light performance. Focus and high iso. I had the D5000 while waiting on a D7000. The D5000 didn't stack up to the T2i IMO. One nice thing about the articulating screen; you can turn it around when not in use to protect it. D5000s are available on ebay as refurbished cameras. I got one and it appeared new. The price was very good at $423. delivered for a body only. Of course neither the D5000 nor T2i compare to the D7000. Both cost much less, though.
As to your lens questions. I'd go with the 18-105 & 70-300. I had the 18-105 that came with my D7000 and it was a pretty decent lens. I think as good, or better, than the others in that range. I don't have personal experience with the 70-300 but it seems people feel it's a decent lens as well.

 

[revid]

thanks bud for the help.was kinda leaning towards the 7000 and the 18-105 and probably looking for a decent second hand 300.I had a tamron with my d50 and found it pretty good but it wasn't a vr so thats what iam trying to get now,all vr lens.

 

[pdq5oh]

You're welcome. I have no personal experience with Tamron's new 70-300 but, the guys at the local camera shop have said it's a very good lens. IQ is good and focus is fast & accurate. You may want to check that lens when the time comes. I can say from personal experience that the D7000 will make you happy for quite some time. The T2i will also, but is smaller & doesn't handle as well, IMO. Should low light performance and the size not be a concern, take a serious look at it. If you have Nikon lenses you may be better off staying with Nikon. The D7000 will auto focus with any of Nikon's AF lenses.

 

[Alexandraj]

Nikon D7000 is a best camera. I am using it. Strongly recommended.

 

[revid]

what lens do you have or recommend Alexandraj?