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...

Great value for an entry level DSLR and superb photos

Features; price

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...

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.

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

With the multiple options for file types and quality settings it is a very good all round camera for stills. The movie mode is very good and the end files are of very good quality, the lack of portable microphone socket is a drawback but for average home movies it does not cause many problems.

The combination of lens and standard features makes a good starting point for someone new to DSLRs

Though I didn't purchase this camera from Radio Shack, I am absolutely THRILLED with it! I absolutely love it - it's portable, easy to use, and takes fantastic photos. The only problem is that when using live view or shooting video, the battery eats up pretty quick.

Easy To Use; Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus; Fast Shutter Speed; Good Image Quality; Good Image Stabilization; High ISO Performance; Large Clear LCD; Quiet

Short Battery Life

For many years I have been using a Nikon F60 35mm camera getting some great results in my amateur hands. Late last year I decided to upgrade and get a DSLR, and after trawling the internet for hours decided to stick with Nikon and purchased the D3100 18-55mm VR kit.

Big on features, low on cost

Lightweight and compact; low cost; good low-light performance

Body balance feels awkward; limited manual (but built-in guide is useful