6 replies to this topic

[dubiousone]

My first DSLR was  D50. It's the perfect camera for a new-to-DSLR-but-not-to-photography to learn on. I like the way the controls are setup, I like having the in body focus motor but not the teeny LCD or lack of full function with my older Nikon lenses, limited ISO. I looked at the D7000, 7100, more than I need. I won't go to the 3200/5200 bodies because I don't like the size or the way the controls are laid out. I suppose I could wait for the 7100 to fall into my budget range, it isn't that far out, but I really like the D90 or D300. Perhaps one of you out there has used any of these and has some insight. (I should have just jumped on that D300 for $600 I saw a few months ago)

[Merco_61]

Choosing between the D90 and the D300 is not easy. The D300 has got even better ergonomics, but is about 1/3 of a stop noisier. The best camera with that sensor was the D300s, which has the D300 ergonomics, weather seals and shutter life coupled with the better signal processor of the D90.

It is probably easiest to find a D300s with a low shutter count, because the D300 was bought primarily by pros, the D90 by shutterbugs and the D300s by people with large disposable incomes wanting the "best" DX body. This last sentence is mostly tongue in cheek, but it is a fact that it is difficult to find a used D300 or D90 that has not been used a lot.

If you like your D50's ergonomics, the D90 probably has a shorter learning period. A D300 gives much more freedom in setting up the controls exactly how *you* want them.

Another alternative is to look for a used D7100, they are starting to turn up now that people upgrade to the D610. Apart from the lack of buttons, the D7100 is the long awaited, mythical D400 in a more compact form factor.

[Daniel]

The D7000 body sells less than 700 now. Its decent camera but not as good as the D7100.  

[Long Exposure]

Just buy a D7100, it isn't that much money.  If you are really pressed, shop around and buy a refurb.  I good friend just bought a refurb D7100 for a little more than $800US.

[Ron]

I also agree with those who suggest the D7100. Both the D90 and D300 or D300s are EOL (End of Life) or near EOL bodies while the D7100 is Nikon's latest prosumer DSLR and is, from all accounts, one of their best DX bodies ever. 

 

--Ron

[CanadiaNikon]

While you say the 7000 & 7100 are more than you need, you would learn a LOT with them and likely not outgrow them for a considerable amount of time.

 

On the other hand, if you are not making huge crops and/or prints, you would not be limited by the lower resolution of the older bodies. The 90 , 300 and 300s are all fine quality bodies. Depending on your shooting preferences, the 300 and 300s are slightly larger and have better weather sealing ("pro" bodies).

 

Good luck with your choice!

[dubiousone]

Thanks to all for your advice! After some playing and worrying and trying and shopping, I found a barely used (and I mean barely) D90 at Adorama for  $400. It mostly came down to ergonomics; the D90 just 'felt' better though the D7100 was tempting. So far, I'm loving it!