Nikon's presence in the entry-level DSLR market has been strong for many years, and following the success of the D60 and D3000 , the latest D3100 amps things up a couple of gears.

Guide Mode; Full HD movie capture; well-handled image quality

Pricier than many entry-level models; no Depth of Field preview button; limitations to movie capture

Falling into line just above Nikon's other entry-level D3000 DSLR, the Nikon D3100 has some fresh features that make it a very attractive DSLR option for photographers who are starting out.

For many years Nikon has been supplying the camera market with great entry-level DSLR cameras that are very easy to use, pleasant to handle and fun to shoot with. The Nikon D3100 continues this tradition with the much-needed ability to record high-definition 1080p movies, live view mode, a better...

Great value for an entry level DSLR and superb photos

Features; price

The D3100 is the latest incarnation of a line of cameras that – if we're brutally honest – we find a bit annoying. In an effort not to bamboozle first-time SLR users, it presents most photographic options via the LCD screen and navigation pad.

had it for a few months the best camera is the one you have with you I'm not worried about breaking it, so cheap it's almost disposable (compared to the ones you REALLY want) It's a good starter - if you can afford to go up a level, do it If you have to save a month more to get one, consider this I...

Falling into line just above Nikon's other entry-level Nikon D3000 DSLR, the Nikon D3100 has some fresh features that make it a very attractive DSLR option for photographers who are starting out.

Shoots HD video; Autofocus in movie and live view modes; Good image quality for the price; Intuitive controls and guide menu for beginners; Good low light abilites

Autofocus makes noise in movie mode; Fixed LCD screen; No exposure bracketing

The D3100 is a compact, feature-packed DSLR from Nikon. It has many useful upgrades from the existing D3000 and is looking to establish itself as the best entry-level DSLR for consumers. This review explores how good it really is, and includes some sample images to show what you can expect.

Nikon's new entry level DSLR offers nice still image quality with good high ISO performance all rolled in to a compact and light DSLR. The 18-55mm kit lens is a solid if unspectacular performer with average AF times, but generally good image quality and a very usable close focus distance.

Good color; image quality; Light and compact DSLR; Decent kit lens

Short video record time; Noticeable rolling shutter

The bottom end of Nikon's formidable DSLR line-up has never looked so tempting. The D3100's build quality is up to Nikon's intimidating reputation, with the possible exception of the rather wobbly pop-up flash.