The Nikon D5100 takes solid photos and videos, offering the response shutterbugs demand as they move from point-and-shoots to "real" cameras.

Quality 16-megapixel images; 3-inch vari-angle LCD (921K pixels; ISO range of 100 to 25,600

Kit lens is just a starting point; Awkward control system; Video good not great

Nikon's D5100 DSLR arrives just a year after the release of the D5000 it replaces, offering higher resolution, improved video performance and a more adjustable LCD monitor. Slightly smaller and lighter than its predecessor, it's the first Nikon DSLR with built-in special effects.

Overall, I had a very positive experience with the Nikon D5100. The camera is capable of delivering excellent results both for digital stills and video. As can be seen from image comparisons against other older Nikon DSLRs, the sensor on the Nikon D5100 and D7000 DSLRs is truly remarkable.

The Nikon D5100 is the company's latest 'upper-entry-level' DSLR aimed at beginners or those wanting a step-up from a basic budget model. Announced in April 2011, it comes exactly two years after its predecessor, the popular D5000.

Quality images with good balance of detail and noise; Articulated screen with 3in / 920k panel; HD video at multiple fps with mic input and continuous AF; Fun EFFECTS mode; some of which can be applied to video

Continuous movie AF can be visibly and audibly distracting; UI slow for experienced owners; No Live Histogram in Live View; No motor to autofocus older (non AF-S) lenses

The position of a mid-range consumer camera can be hard to get excited about; it's not the cheapest, nor is it the most advanced in its range, and yet it fills a useful role. Rather than just slotting in quietly between the entry-level D3100 and the more advanced D7000, the new Nikon D5100 offers...

The Nikon D5100 has long since been considered a reliable yet affordable DSLR, even with the various advancements made in camera technology over the past year. It has a CMOS sensor with an optical resolution of 16.2 megapixels, an 11 point phase detection auto focus system and an ISO range of 100 to...

How well does the Nikon D5100 walk the line between beginner and mid-level enthusiasts? The What Digital Camera Nikon D5100 review finds out…

Good image quality; improved live view mode; responsive AF; impressive movie options

Non-customiseable Effects; no AF-point lock; no remote commander; no DoF preview

This is one of the best semi professional camera. For a begin if some one intrested to go with D3100 its better to go with D5100 as this will never disapoint you after having a hands on experience with SLR camera. Generally this comes with 18-55 lens which is enough for a start.

We've found that each camera has its pros an cons, and none of them are perfect. The one that's right for you depends on your needs!

Size : Compact, but the grip may be a bit too small depending on how big your hands are. Images : Just great. Not really far behind it's newer brothers. Video : Meh, kinda sucks. For better video, go to other brands or to higher end models.