Worthwhile to upgrade from D80?

[JimK]

I've been using a Nikon D80 for about 5 or 6 years, primarily with 18 200 vr zoom and a 35mm dx prime. My primary subjects are landscape and travel. I don't make enlargements beyond 16x20".I'm trying to decide whether a move to d3100 or d5100 is worth the investment. I know the body would be lighter to carry, but would there also be a meaningful improvement in image quality? Reading ads and reviews only adds to my confusion. Any ideas?

 

[MLeeK]

I would steer clear of the D3100. The d5100 is a decent camera, however if any of your lenses are without the af motor they won't work on it. Honestly? If you are upgrading from the d80 the D90 or the D7000 would be a much better choice. The D5100 and D3100 are entry level cameras. The D5100 is a definite improvement over the D3100 with a much better sensor in it (same as is in the D7000) while still lacking a LOT of the features of the D7000 which is more in a class with your D80.

 

[Nikon_Josh]

A true upgrade would be a D7000 or D90, you will lose features you may have become accustomed to using by purchasing a 5100 or 3100. I know it would be impossible for me to lose the flexibility of my D90 now!

 

[jake337]

Since you like landscape, I think an investment in some nice wide angle glass would make you happier.

Also, you should think about the features you will lose like: your in body motor, commander mode, and some of the features will be in-menu instead of on the body. Are these features important to you?

 

[jake337]

But if your question is purely IQ based, maybe someone who has printed 16x20 with both the d80, d90, d3100, d5100 may have better advice for ya.

 

[2WheelPhoto]

D7000 will get you better ISO performance. D5100 will do better video, as will the D90. No other reasons to upgrade. I had a D80 and a D7000, I chose to keep the D80 as a back up cam and sold my D7000 (Friday).