Nikon Digital SLR Advice

[tobiasnugent]

I'm after another SLR i use to own the nikon D40 when i did photography at college. Awesome little camera with easy to use menus etc. So iv been looking at the current market for new nikons and wondered what would be my best option. I dont want to spend mega bucks but id rather spend a little bit more if its going to make a whole lot of difference.

So my options that iv seen up to now are.

Second hand D40 (quite old now though)
D3100
D5000

Opinions thoughts reviews ?

I hope to purchase better lenses etc in the future so this should be considered when advising me :)

[Pendulum]

Save a little extra and pick up a gently used D90. It's well worth the extra bit of change. You'll be able to use much more lenses, menus are easier to navigate, and it feels better in your hands. Add a grip later and you've got a very easy to hold camera that will deliver great shots. I use mine for everything from product shots to night drifting and the only complaint I have is ISO performance above 3200... My next camera will be full frame lol

[Orlandoech.com]

Whats your budget? I would highly suggest the new D7000 or the D60/90.

[John Zhang]

If you are looking at that list only then the D3100 is your best bet image quality wise :)

[ShootJoeC]

canon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[TW0R]

Save a little extra and pick up a gently used D90. It's well worth the extra bit of change. You'll be able to use much more lenses, menus are easier to navigate, and it feels better in your hands. Add a grip later and you've got a very easy to hold camera that will deliver great shots. I use mine for everything from product shots to night drifting and the only complaint I have is ISO performance above 3200... My next camera will be full frame lol

This.

The entry level nikons are awkward to hold, and just feel cheap. the d90 is where its at for entry level nikons as far as I'm concerned. Still have yet to/want to play with a d7000 though.

Or just get a rebel xs.

[tobiasnugent]

I want to spend around £400-£500 but i wanted to get it from jessops camera shop as they do 0% finance lol. I'm from the uk btw!

[Pendulum]

I would really suggest saving up for something that has autofocus in the body. The D90 is the cheapest Nikon that offers this, Canon probably has something comparable.

The D40 was just so limiting after a few months for me. I felt the same way about the D5000. I have no experience with the 3100, but I suspect the same.

[tobiasnugent]

yes i noticed this as well wheni had my D40

[NYNCTC]

get a canon :)

if you like the d40, then find a used d40 and use the extra cash for a lens or two?