With Nikon’s introduction of the Nikon D3100 DSLR, they have released its latest entry-level offering and its first DSLR that can record full 1080p HD videos. Successor to the popular D3000, the Nikon D3100 is built around a 14.2 CMOS sensor and a 3 inch LCD. The D3100 is Nikon’s lightest as well as probably smallest DSLR to date, while not feeling dainty. As well as movies it gains Live View shooting, a wider ISO range (100-3200 expandable to 12800) and†many small revisions. And believe me, the D3100 is a great camera made all the better with this new introduction. The D3100 is small and lightweight (17 oz) but does not feel that way. This may be Nikon’s smallest and lightest DSLR to date.
Nikon D3100 DSLR Description:
Capture beautiful pictures and amazing Full HD 1080p movies with sound and full-time autofocus. Easily capture the action other cameras miss with a fast start up time, split-second shutter release, 3 frames per second shooting and 11-point autofocus. Nikon’s affordable, compact and lightweight D3100 digital SLR features a high-resolution 14-megapixel CMOS DX sensor, high-quality 3x NIKKOR 18-55mm VR image stabilization zoom lens and intuitive onboard assistance including the learn-as-you grow Guide Mode. This new camera just started shipping in September, 2010.
Nikon D3100 Technical Details
* 14.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor; 3-inch monitor with One-Touch Live View shooting and movie capture
* Includes 3x 18-55mm Zoom-NIKKOR VR Image Stabilization lens
* Full 1080p HD Cinematic Video with full-time autofocus and sound (max 10 min.)
* Easy-To-Use Nikon Guide Mode with intuitive controls and on-board assistance
* Capture images to SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards (not included)
* Shutter rate: .004 ñ 30 seconds and Bulb; 2 second or 10 second self-timer
Pro’s:
* Excellent photo quality;
* Well-laid-out controls
* User-friendly Guide mode;
* Full manual controls in video capture.
* Extremely quiet
* Large LCD for viewing
* Battery charger made for use anywhere (50, 60 cycle, 100-240 volt) with built-in plug
Con’s:
* Smallish viewfinder
* Slower than the competition (fps)
* No depth-of-field viewing
* No bracketing
Summary:
A very good entry-level DSLR, this Nikon D3100 delivers excellent photo quality in a body that’s streamlined for experienced photographers, but relatively unintimidating for the less advanced photographer. If this will be your first DSLR, I would highly recommend this over the larger, heavier and more expensive DSLR’s out there. Its only weakness is performance; though solid, it nevertheless lags behind the competition in its lower frame-rate.