Channel 5

Nikon D3100

G-Rating

Rating of 4

The basics

The Nikon D3100 is the latest entry-level DSLR from one of the nation's most popular camera manufacturers. With the same mini-me styling as proper pro cameras, and stunning photo quality, it's a great step up for those wanting to upgrade from compact cameras.

How to shoot underwater: Follow these top tips!

Read our full Nikon 1 J1 review here

The good

Despite sitting at the low end of Nikon's digital SLR range, the Nikon D3100 is an excellent camera. It features similar styling to much more expensive cameras, with an oversized handgrip, and it's a robust and well made solution.

The kit lens is particularly impressive. It offers impressive colour reproduction, and pin-sharp photographs. Noise is very well contained, even in dark conditions, making this an excellent choice for night time photography.

The Nikon D3100 is also capable of recording high-definition video, so you'll also be able to use it as a full-on camcorder to capture those special occasions. As an all-rounder, it's an excellent device, and a great step up for those switching from compact camera to digital SLR.

The bad

The Nikon D3100 is competing in an increasingly crowded market, and it struggles to differentiate itself. It's good, yes, but there are also impressive options available from Canon, Olympus and others. The D3100 also lacks manual controls when filming videos, stopping you from adjusting certain settings.

Check out our Samsung Galaxy Camera review here

Watch our smart camera video group test here

The bottom line

If you've already decided on an entry-level DSLR, the chances are you'll be considering Nikon and Canon. The Nikon D3100 is an excellent all-rounder, and well worth the money.

Buy now on Currys

Nikon D3100 is tagged with Nikon D3100, Nikon and camera. Select a tag (Nikon D3100, for example) to find everything on The Gadget Show about the subject.

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