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Beginner DSLR....which basic model is the best...


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38 replies to this topic

#1
Santhosh

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As a beginner...which is the best DSLR camera to get range below $600.00

#2
mypobox

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Refurb D5100. great sensor and AE bracketing. You will want the Bracketing as you grow.


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#3
hanhle

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I have a D3100 with a kit lens and it does an awesome job. Pretty light yet sufficient enough for newbie like me
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#4
Adam

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As a beginner...which is the best DSLR camera to get range below $600.00

 

I'd recommend either the D3200 or D5100 as others have said.

 

You can compare the specs here:

Nikon D3200 - Nikon DSLRs - Nikon Camera Database - Camera Database - NikonForums.com

Nikon D5100 - Nikon DSLRs - Nikon Camera Database - Camera Database - NikonForums.com

 

The D5100 is in a higher class than the D3200, so if you plan on taking advantage of more advanced features in the future, it might be a good idea to start there.  Plus, it's a couple of years old now, which means that the prices are great.


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#5
Rontography

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I don't think you can go wrong with the D3100 or D5100. For the amount that you are wanting to spend you can get a D3100 with an 18-55 and 55-200 kit lens. Great way to get started.


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#6
edmercer

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I have a D3200 as a backup and carry-everywhere camera.

 

Awesome performance.


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#7
Wolfzbane

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Definitely go for the D5100, that's what I have and the difference between that and the D3000 is well worth the extra bit of money :)



#8
Bill

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I have the D3200 with stock kit lens and love it!
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#9
Gareth

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I've got the d3000 with 18-55 kit lens does everything I need
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#10
Mark Win

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I'd recommend either the D3200 or D5100 as others have said.

 

You can compare the specs here:

Nikon D3200 - Nikon DSLRs - Nikon Camera Database - Camera Database - NikonForums.com

Nikon D5100 - Nikon DSLRs - Nikon Camera Database - Camera Database - NikonForums.com

 

The D5100 is in a higher class than the D3200, so if you plan on taking advantage of more advanced features in the future, it might be a good idea to start there.  Plus, it's a couple of years old now, which means that the prices are great.

 

The D3200 is a great camera and although it is classed as an 'entry level' Dlsr i can definatly say it stands up to others aimed at the Pro market...


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#11
Landscaaped

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D3200 you cant go wrong.


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#12
Ignacior

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I have a d5100 and a d3100, i find myself using the d3100 more and more. I just like the overall "feel" to it. Not sure how else to explain it. Its a great camera.


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#13
Kenneth Terry

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I have a D5100 and its a good camera.


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#14
marco polo

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Definitely check out the d3200 amazing starter model :)


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#15
dlt5075

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D5200

#16
Davem45

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Would agree with everyone here unless you have previous Nikon lenses for film then I would look at either a refurb D90 or second hand



#17
Aragorn

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I have a D3100 and I have to say I have never found it wanting or "budget" in its feel or performance.

I don't miss AEB as I don't do a lot of HDR stuff, but even when I do, I just create multiple exposure levels from the RAW file and use those - zero alignment issues and less hassle.


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#18
charles76

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Grab a D200 or a D90 used. Good features and room to grow.

#19
AndyLewis

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I used a D3100 for my first two years and it provided some clear and crisp shots. It enabled me to learn and grow into photography as a discipline without to great a dent in my wallet.



#20
onewiththecamera

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You can still get the D5100 new with the kit lens in a number of places for $599. I was able to get an additional 15% off from a retailer here making it $525 or something like that. The D5100 is a stunning camera. The D3100 and D3200 are nice, but the lack of bracketing and the limited focal points are something you will probably grow out of fast. I also love the high ISO. I have shot all the way to ISO 6400 with stunning results. Some of the shots are on blog posts on onewiththecamera.com along with a discussion of using auto ISO, which I am a recent convert to.