Nikon D3100 or Canon 500D

[Hollydave]

Hi everyone, walked into a shop today to get more advice on Canon 500D and they did not sell Canon only Nikon. So when propositioned with the Nikon D3100 i thought i better ask the experts. Which one ?.

[adam_christie]

It's a question that's been asked by many, many people - and all I can say is that you need to try both out! Both are just as good as each other, and it's honestly down to personal preference at the end of the day - whichever feels better in your hand, whichever is easiest for you to operate and who's menu is easiest for you to navigate. There isn't much in it with regards to specs either!

[ianpinion]

Well said Adam, you need to be able to try them both to see which you prefer. Incidentally, what did you think to the Nikon D3100? Any good, Hollydave?

[chris-p]

I echo what the others have said. There is no real difference between the EOS 1000D and and D3100. The only thing is which one you like the look of more and which one fits your hand better. If you can't find a difference in terms of ergonomics, buy the prettiest - you'll use it more if you like the way it looks more.

[Hollydave]

Hi Ian. I quite liked the look of the Nikon D3100 and the sales guy had said it was a good entry level with the scope to take more advanced pics later on. Like everyone has said get them both in your hands and have a play with them.
Thanks for the advice Dave

[ian clark]

I was in the same position and opted for the Nikon simply because it felt right and I found the guide mode really is dummy proof (well so far at least).
Had it since begginning of the year so early days but so far so good, to busy at work to get out much.
A tip I have since been given and have used in regard to lenses is hunt down an equipment hire specialist and spend a few pounds (well OK several pounds ) and try them both, it might cost a bit but better than regretting your purchase later.
Take a look at Calumet they hire just about everything you can get cameras from £30 per day (three day weekend pay for one day) lenses from about the same.
Obviously the dearer to buy the more to hire

[Hollydave]

Hi Ian.
Thanks for the info. Planning on getting the camera in the next two weeks and starting to lean towards the Nikon as i managed to get to grips with a few camera's on Saturday and the lens that comes with the Nikon has VR
Hope to post a few pics on the forum over the next few months.
Dave

[amk1977]

The only thing I would add to this is lens compatability, which is something very often overlooked with Nikon camera bodies by beginners.

Although a very good entry level camera in terms of its performance, the D3100 lacks a body motor. This means that you will only get autofocus with AF-S lenses. AF-D lenses will only work in manual focus mode. I've known of a few people who went with the D5000 when first launched and bought the 50mm f/1.8D (one of the best bang for buck lenses you can buy for optical performance), only to realise they can't achieve AF with it. You do of course have the option to go for the 35mm f/1.8 AF-S, which is about £50 more than the 50mm f/1.8.

Its basically swings and roundabouts. You either pay more for a Nikon with a camera body, which affords you the option of AF with older Nikon lenses, or buy a cheaper body and pay for the more expensive AF-S lenses later on. Point in case, 50mm f/1.8D £100. 50mm f/1.4D £200. 50mm f/1.4G (AF-S) £300. If memory serves, you don't have this problem with Canon EF lenses/bodies.

While not having a focus motor is not a problem for some people and situations, for others it can be a limiting factor, so bear this in mind when making your final decision.