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Nikon D90 or D3100?

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psilence

Limp Gawd
Joined
Jun 1, 2009
Messages
167
I'm debating between two DSLR models . . . the Nikon D90 or the D3100. After narrowing my selection down to just these two models, I've been reading reviews for days and I can't seem to make a solid decision.

In head-to-head comparisons, the D90 comes out just ahead and doesn't have the same lens-compatibility issues as the D3100, which can't auto-focus on non-AF-S lenses. I also like some of the more advanced features of the D90, but I'm not sure if any of it is worth the higher price (leaving me with less money for glass). I also have this nagging dislike of purchasing a model that's been on the market since 8/08, when the D3100 is up-to-date and has only been on the market for a few months. Is that even a valid argument?

I'm not a true beginner, but this is my first DSLR in a long time. I had a Nikon that I loved that was stolen when my house was burglarized and we never had the money to replace it, so I've been using a decent quality P&S for almost four-years. Now that we can afford an upgrade, all that's holding me back from great shots now is buying and really learning the camera itself. Help me decide? I feel like I'm missing some key features that should sway me in one direction or another. Thanks.
 
Well, what's your total budget and what lenses are you planning to get?
 
I'm not totally decided on lenses, but I'm considering the 70-300mm and the 35mm f/1.8 or the 50mm f/1.4, or maybe all three, depending on what I ultimately spend on the camera. Trying to keep the total under $2k, but I'd like a decent zoom lens and a fast prime.
 
Do you shoot in manual a lot? In that case the D90's dual control dials will come in handy. Or do you plan to do a lot of strobe work? The CLS commander mode on the D90 will come in handy. Otherwise, D3100 will be fine.
 
You also might be able to squeeze in a D7000 if $2000's your budget. $1200 for the body, $110 for an 18-55, $195 for a 35mm f/1.8, $520 for a 70-300 VR. The first lens is rather cheap but still delivers great image quality considering its price.
 
^I would second this motion. Assuming you can find the D7000 in stock, that is. Otherwise, a D90 is a fine choice.
 
I say the D7000 honestly. If you need to save up a additional month do it.

But I would choose the d90 over the d3100, even though the d3100 will have better noise handling, it does not support certain lenses. That alone would prob bother me.
 
Well, the only lenses that I see that'll cause issues are the 50mm f/1.8 and the Tokina 11-16 if he wants a wide. All other likely lenses are all AF-S and thus D3100 compatible.
 
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