Oct 1, 2014, 23:23
(Oct 1, 2014, 06:13)dwbooker Wrote: I use a D5100 and like it very much. While there are many excellent cameras out there, if you are planning on joining the Nikon camp, I think as a first DSLR the 5100 would be a great choice. Image quality is exceptional. While I have a couple of zooms that pretty much cover the spectrum, I tend to walk about with the f1.8 35mm AF-S - an excellent and very affordable lens. If you do purchase the 5100, be sure that it has the latest firmware (1.02) which solved a few early issues. Good luck!
D5100 is a good starter camera.
However, I opted for the D7100 for several reasons:
Click HERE for a comparison.
One important difference not mentioned is the D7100 has an internal motor, so the $400 Difference ($1000 vs $600) can be made up by buying less expensive (sometimes less than 1/2 price) D lenses which will auto focus with the D7100.
The D5100 does not have an internal motor. This is quite important when shooting events, sports, and wildlife.
My 2 cents