Nikon D3100 Review
The Nikon D3100 has ISO 100-3200 sensitivity, with the versatility of effectively boosting ISO up to 12800. Using the easy-access movie record button you can instantly switch to video mode on the Nikon D 3100.
The Nikon D3100 is designed for newcomers to D-SLR photography, especially young families who want to take beautiful pictures without worrying about complicated functionality. The camera features a 14.2 CMOS sensor and a 3 inch LCD.
The Nikon D3100 is a follow-up to last year’s entry-level D3000. The camera includes continuous auto-focus, a special HD video-recording feature that no other D-SLR has yet to offer.
Until today, D-SLRs could only auto-focus on command, but it was very slow since the camera’s processor must capture image information, save it, display it on the LCD and auto-focus. This camera is able to accomplish this thanks to a new image processor called the Expeed 2, Nikon said, though no specific information was given about its CPU or clock speed.
This camera users will have the option to record video in different HD sizes and frame rates. Captures at 1080p will be available at 24 frames per second, while 720p will allow for captures at 24 and 30 frames per second.
Key features:
* DX-format, 14.2 megapixel CMOS image sensor: The high pixel sensor will give you outstanding colour and detail in pictures and movies you’ll want to see again and again
* New EXPEED 2 image processing engine: Provides enhanced movie recording, high-sensitivity performance and maximum image quality. EXPEED 2 maximises CMOS sensor performance for clear, lifelike images that exhibit vivid colours, reduced noise and smooth tonal gradations for outstanding photos and movies
* High ISO (100-3200) sensitivity: Extendable up to 12800: Indoor shots or fast-moving children need never be blurry or dull again, even without a flash
* Guide Mode: Simply the easiest way to learn how to get great pictures, without having to read the manual
* D-Movie – full HD (1920 x 1080) at 24fps movie clips: Record beautiful HD movie clips with sound and achieve exceptional image quality with high ISO sensitivity. NIKKOR lenses can be used for cinematic effects and simple edits can be made in-camera. In addition, HDMI connectivity means you can watch your HD movies on an HD television
* Live View with new AF-F mode and Scene Auto Selector: The new Live View provides an intuitive and familiar way of taking pictures and it includes a Scene Auto Selector, which automatically selects the best mode to match the scene. The AF-F mode keeps subjects in focus without the need to press the shutter release button
* 7.5 cm (3-inch) monitor: A great platform on which to share your beautiful images and movies with friends and family
* 11-point autofocus system: The quick and accurate autofocus ensures everything is in focus so you get the sharpest image
* Active D-Lighting: Bright sunshine need never wash out detail again. The balance of light and shade can be preserved forever
* Picture control: Lets you set the look and mood of your images before you shoot. You can choose from six settings: Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Monochrome, Portrait and Landscape
* In-camera image and movie editing: Why wait for a PC? Retouching, filter effects and red-eye correction can be achieved in the palm of your hand
* Compact, light and durable: It’s the smallest and lightest Nikon D-SLR yet so you can sling it over your shoulder, ready for any picture or movie moment. Also, with improved ergonomics, you’ll now have direct access to shutter release, Live View and movie modes.
* Dual Integrated Dust Reduction System: Image Sensor Cleaning and Airflow Control systems keep dust away from the camera’s image sensor for clear, spot-free images
* New software, ViewNX2 will be bundled with the D3100: It inherits the basic operations of ViewNX whilst providing much enhanced operability, including a refined GUI, and a range of easy-to-use features allowing you to edit photos as well as movie.
T3 reviews writes:
“WE LOVE: Well built, Fast and responsive, Fairly priced, Buttons large and obvious. WE HATE: Small-ish handgrip, video not as easy to access and use as on Panasonic and Sony rivals. WE SAY: The D3100 offers just about everything any serious amateur could want from a starter DSLR, and at a fair price“
KenRockwell writes:
“I’d get a D3100 instead of other bigger, heavier and more expensive cameras unless you have a very clear, stated reason that the D3100 won’t work for you.”
PocketLint writes:
“The camera takes “entry-level” DSLRs up a notch. It’s a hugely well-specified model that trounces current competition at this level. The pictures are great as is the Full HD 1080p movie mode. Those looking for a DSLR for the first time need look no further, and those already familiar with photography will be equally gratified at everything on offer here too. Top stuff”
PCMag writes:
“Nikon’s D3100 is an excellent entry-level digital SLR, and is currently the only D-SLR to offer continuous autofocus during video recording for a true camcorder-like video-capture experience.”
CNET.uk writes:
“If we could make one change to this camera, it would be the addition of a tilting LCD screen — as found on Sony’s SLT-A33 and Panasonic’s new Lumix DMC-GH2 — rather than the current fixed variety. Oh, and the resolution could do with being boosted beyond the bog-standard 230k dots. Apart from that, there’s not a great deal wrong with the D3100. For the price, it should make for a very sound investment for first-dSLR buyers.”
DigitalReview.ca writes:
“Overall we were very pleased with the field performance of the D3100 in our tests, and have no hesitation in recommending the camera as a great family, travel SLR. With user-friendly operation the camera can be picked up right away and used in a point and shoot
capacity delivering pleasing results. “
S P E C I F I C A T I O N:
| Type | Single-lens reflex digital camera |
|---|---|
| Lens mount | Nikon F mount (with AF contacts) |
| Effective pixels | 14.2 million |
| Image sensor | 23.1 x 15.4 mm CMOS sensor |
| Image size (pixels) | 4,608 x 3,072 [L] 3,456 x 2,304 [M] 2,304 x 1,536 [S] |
| File format | 1) NEF(RAW), 2)JPEG, 3)NEF(RAW)+JPEG |
| Media | SD (Secure Digital) memory cards *1, SDHC- and SDXC-compliant |
| Frame advance rate | Up to 3 fps *2 |
| ISO sensitivity | ISO 100 to 3200 in steps of 1 EV; Can also be set to approx. 1 EV above ISO 3200 (ISO 6400 equivalent) or to approx. 2 EV above ISO 3200 (ISO 12800 equivalent); auto ISO sensitivity control available |
| Movie | Frame size (pixels) and frame rate: 1,920 x 1,080; 24 p – 1,280 x 720; 30 p – 1,280 x 720; 25 p – 1,280 x 720; 24 p – 640 x 424; 24 p Maximum Recording Time:10 min. File format/Video compression: MOV, H.264/MPEG-4 Advanced Video Cording Audio recording device; Supported:monaural recording with built-in microphone. |
| LCD monitor | 3-in., approx. 230 k-dot TFT LCD with brightness adjustment |
| Power source | Battery; One rechargeable Li-ion EN-EL14 battery AC adapter(optional);EH-5a AC adapter; requires EP-5 power connector |
| Dimensions (approx.) (W x H x D) |
124 X 96 X 74.5mm |
| Weight (approx.) | 455g without battery, memory card, or body cap, 505g;with battery and memory card but without body cap |
| Major supplied accessories | EN-EL14 rechargeable Li-ion battery, MH-24 battery charger, AN-DC3 camera strap, ViewNX 2 CD-ROM, Ferrite Core (2 types) |
*1 Not applied to Multi Media Card *2 manual focus, mode M or S, shutter speed 1/250 s or faster, and other settings at default values
Unless otherwise stated, all figures are for a camera with a fully-charged battery operating at an ambient temperature of 20 ° C (68 ° F).