D5100 vs D3100

There are several differences to consider when deciding whether to purchase the D5100 or D3100. The D3100 is more of a beginner DSLR and the D5100 is just a step before the semi-pro D7000.

First the differences:

They both have:

• 11 AF Points
• No in-body focus motor
• Video auto-focus
• SDXC card compability
• CLS compatibility, but no commander mode
• Plastic bodies

D5100 vs D5000
D5100 vs D7000
Nikon D3200 vs D5100
D5100 vs D90
D5200 vs D5100

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Originally Posted by jdeg

There are several differences to consider when deciding whether to purchase the D5100 or D3100. The D3100 is more of a beginner DSLR and the D5100 is just a step before the semi-pro D7000.

Out of curiosity, what makes the D5100 less of a beginner DSLR than the D3100?

Originally Posted by ChrisM

Out of curiosity, what makes the D5100 less of a beginner DSLR than the D3100?

There's a couple more differences not listed above like the D5100 having more focus modes, exposure bracketing, white balance bracketing, the HDR feature, and more scene modes. I guess it's up to the purchaser if those features + the above are worth the extra $200.

Thanks, I was just curious. I think if I ever upgrade (maybe that should say "when" I upgrade) i'll just take the big jump up to one of the pro Nikons.

I almost bought the D3100. But I like the flip out screen and the D5100 is an amazing camera!

I think they now have a D5200, which seems like an awesome camera. I will have to look at it. I haven't done much looking. There should be a sticky comparing D5100 to D5200. That's if the D5200 is selling now.

I am pretty sure the D5200 is not available in the U.S. yet. From reviews it doesn't seem like much has changed from the D5100.