Nikon D90 vs D5100 as beginner camera

[snapsnap1973]

Hi.

Is the D90 a better deal for me starting out in photography? I found this link and it's a D90 and to me it seems like a good deal.
I'm just wondering if it may be better than the D5100 with an 18-55 kit lens?

It look like I get 2 lens and the D90 for under $700 USD?

OverstockDigital.com

 

[KmH]

The D5100 is newer and has a better image sensor than the image sensor in the D90.

The D90 has several very useful features the D5100 lacks.
A second command wheel
A top LCD
Nikon's screw drive auto focus system

I am not familiar with overstockdigital.com.

 

[binga63]

If you are starting get the d90 it enables you to use more lenses, it gives you the feel of a pros camera unlike the d5100 which has been dumbed down... the d90 will help you learn more than the 5100, the 5100 has a higher resolution, greater sensitivity. If the camera you buy is just a stepping stone for a better one I would go with the D90...Just the fact that it will use older lenses is a blessing in itself...the money you save can be spent on.... more lenses

 

[TheFantasticG]

Depends on the use. For my Dad a better beginner camera was the D5100.

 

[thunderkyss]

Cheapest Camera you can find, best lenses you get.

 

[Sarmad]

I'd get a D90 over a D5100, because it allows you to get more and cheap lenses due to the presence of a built in autofocus motor. Though the low-light performance of D5100 may be a bit better than D90. Plus the video capabilities of the D90 are minimal, but it's still a better option than the D5100, because of some pro features.

 

[KmH]

I'd get a D90 over a D5100, because it allows you to get more and cheap lenses due to the presence of a built in autofocus motor.

While the auto focus, screw drive system in the D90 does allow a broader selection of lenses, many of those lenses are not cheaper than the consumer grade lenses most beginner photographers will be willing to buy.

 

[Derrel]

"Give a man a fish and he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish and he can feed himself for life."

I often joke, "Teach a man to fish...and you'll never see him again!" (fishing fanatic's joke!!!)

 

[Sarmad]

I'd get a D90 over a D5100, because it allows you to get more and cheap lenses due to the presence of a built in autofocus motor.

While the auto focus, screw drive system in the D90 does allow a broader selection of lenses, many of those lenses are not cheaper than the consumer grade lenses most beginner photographers will be willing to buy.

I'm terribly sorry, I didn't know about D90's screw driver AF system!

 

[Kerbouchard]

I think the D90 is easier to learn on because it's easier to adjust shutter speed and aperture independently. More hands on controls, IMO, allows quicker experimentation and will allow you to grasp the concepts and effects more easily.

 

[snapsnap1973]

Thanks all. I think the D90 is a great compromise between the D5100 and the D7000 from my "beginner's" humble opinion. What I like about it is the extra Dial wheel like the 7000 has, the external ISO, WHITE BALANCE, etc, plus it's CHEAPER than the D7000. I'm not going to be doing much video with the camera anyways.

Is the viewfinder LARGE like the D7000? That was ONE reason I didn't want the D5100 (small viewfinder).

Like I said though I am not really THAT much into photography, BUT I do want a nice camera to take on driving trips and I hoping that if I purchase the D90 I don't have to upgrade for at least a few years. I know lens are a different matter, but I mean I want to keep the body for at least 3 years or better.

Actually I just looked online and with the 18-105 lens it's 1049USD and for another 150USD I can get the D7000 with the same lens .... hmmmm

 

[JaronRH]

I'd recommend the D90 over the 5100. The controls are easier to use (not in menus) and it has some additional functionality over the D5100.

 

[Kerbouchard]

Thanks all. I think the D90 is a great compromise between the D5100 and the D7000 from my "beginner's" humble opinion. What I like about it is the extra Dial wheel like the 7000 has, the external ISO, WHITE BALANCE, etc, plus it's CHEAPER than the D7000. I'm not going to be doing much video with the camera anyways.

Is the viewfinder LARGE like the D7000? That was ONE reason I didn't want the D5100 (small viewfinder).

Like I said though I am not really THAT much into photography, BUT I do want a nice camera to take on driving trips and I hoping that if I purchase the D90 I don't have to upgrade for at least a few years. I know lens are a different matter, but I mean I want to keep the body for at least 3 years or better.

Actually I just looked online and with the 18-105 lens it's 1049USD and for another 150USD I can get the D7000 with the same lens .... hmmmm

Yes, the view finder is better than the D5100.

Also, look used. You should be able to find a D90 and an 18-105 for around $600 or so.

 

[jwbryson1]

OP: WATCH YOU ASS MAN. I Googled Overstock Digital Dot Com "reviews" and they seem a bit shaky. I'd run from them and buy from a reliable, reputable place like Adorama or B&H.

See this link to used D90's at B&H:

Used D90| B&H Photo Video

 

[DBA]

Actually I just looked online and with the 18-105 lens it's 1049USD and for another 150USD I can get the D7000 with the same lens .... hmmmm

I would pay the extra $150 and just get the D7000, you'll be kicking yourself later for not doing that. I know I did. Started out with the D5100 and upgraded to the D7000 a few months later.