Which Camera is better?

[Nguyen222]

Im new to the forum and also new to photography. So I guess 1st thing I need to get is a good camera and I have 2 in mind and it between the
Canon EOS REBEL T3 Black 12.2 MP vs Nikon D3100 14.2MP which one is better for me? Thank guys:thumbup:

 

[Designer]

Since you're new here, you might not be aware that this forum sees many posts such as yours. We see it all the time. As to the specifications of each camera, you can easily compare them as to your own individual needs. I would, however, suggest that the megapixel count is not as important as most newbies think it is. Both cameras have approximately the same, but it is the other specifications which will be more important in how they are to be used.

Also, you have not indicated what type of photography you intend, so it will be impossible for anyone to recommend the better one for you. You should choose based on the entire system of camera body, lens choices, flash attachments, and all the rest. You should also try to handle each one to find out for yourself how they fit your hands, how they feel, and if the controls seem convenient.

Whichever one you choose, you will be getting a pretty good entry-level camera with which you can learn the art and craft of photography using a DSLR.

 

[Nguyen222]

Thanks Designer Im mainly going to use this for me and my girlfriend since she likes to take pictures so I will do that for her. Place where I live it have beautiful fall and winter so it will be fun to capture those moments. I see the D3100 has more MP but IDK whether that is important or not.

 

[KmH]

The Canon T3 does not have Spot metering mode, which would be essential for taking quality photos of your girlfriend.

No, the slightly more MP the D3100 has is not important. The low-light capabilities of each camera is important, as are features like number of focus points, metering color awareness, etc.

Here is an independent testing lab's comparison of image sensor performance for the 2 cameras - DxOMark - Compare cameras side by side

And a couple of reviews -
Nikon D3100 Review: Digital Photography Review
Canon Rebel T3 / EOS 1100D Review: Digital Photography Review

 

[orb9220]

A simple googling of T3 vs Nikon D3100 will give you more results from testing. But getting down to choosing also entails going in a store and handling both. As ergonomics,feel,button placement and menu layout is also a consideration.

For me the Nikon felt more natural to hold and liked the button layout and menu structure better.
Was a better fit and more intuitive for me.
.

 

[Nguyen222]

The Canon T3 does not have Spot metering mode, which would be essential for taking quality photos of your girlfriend.

No, the slightly more MP the D3100 has is not important. The low-light capabilities of each camera is important, as are features like number of focus points, metering color awareness, etc.

Here is an independent testing lab's comparison of image sensor performance for the 2 cameras - DxOMark - Compare cameras side by side

And a couple of reviews -
Nikon D3100 Review: Digital Photography Review
Canon Rebel T3 / EOS 1100D Review: Digital Photography Review

does Low light compabilities means I can take pictures in the dark? If that the case then yes I would very much love that. Is there any recommandation that under 500 USD?

 

[Designer]

does Low light compabilities means I can take pictures in the dark?

No Not "dark", but "low light", meaning average indoor lighting without flash, for instance. Taking pictures with "available light" is somewhat limiting, but challenging. Some people find the challenge fun. Besides, the camera has a built-in flash for the really dark shots.

 

[Nguyen222]

ahh ok good to know. Since i know nothing about camera and strugling to find a decent one. So thanks to all of you

 

[KmH]

While the D3100 has a bit better low light capability, it is only a little bit more capable - about 1/3 of a stop.

You won't struggle if you take the time to understand what the spec numbers are telling you about camera performance.

The Nikon is better overall than the T3, though at your level of understanding and skill you would likely not even notice the differences because they are that small.