In the last several years, Nikon has been updating their 10MP, entry-level DSLR on an annual basis. In the past, the D40X, D60, and D3000 all share a version of the 10MP CCD sensor that was also used on the D200 and D80, but there have been some significant improvements such as the AF system.

The Nikon D3100 provides a painless entry point into the Nikon dSLR system. It enables amateurs to capture more professional-looking images with the minimum of fuss and prior knowledge.

Lightweight yet robust construction; Fast and responsive for an entry-level model; Reasonably priced; Large; well-labelled buttons and controls; Built-in 'guide' mode

Handgrip is on the small side; Video not as quick or easy to shoot with as other dSLRs

The 14.2-megapixel Nikon D3100 is a great entry-level digital SLR, and at $699.95 (list, with 18-55mm lens) it's the least-expensive D-SLR to capture 1080p video. It also includes a feature no other D-SLR has-continuous autofocus during video recording, which makes the D3100 feel like a camcorder...

Inexpensive; Great image quality; Large 3-inch LCD; Continuous autofocus during still and video shooting; Helpful Guide mode for new users; Small body (for a D-SLR)

Audible noise from lens when refocusing during video recording; No microphone input

The D3100 steps into the entry level position in Nikon's line-up featuring a new sensor with higher resolution than its predecessor's and an expanded sensitivity range. It also adds Live View shooting plus Full HD video recording.

The D3100 is a good all-rounder but lacks the spark to set it aside from the crowded entry-level DSLR bracket.

Small and light; Quick autofocus; Good photo quality

No stereo sound or manual controls for video

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.

Old-school photographers will embrace the Nikon D3100's sharp stills and classic design, but noisy video keeps it out of the big leagues with competing models.

Terrific 14.2MP stills; Noise well under control at high ISOs; Good ergonomics; menu system

Mic picks up lens noise when shooting videos; Jelly effect when panning; No USB cable supplied

A year after releasing the D3000, the last SLR to use the ageing 10-Megapixel CCD, Nikon has revamped its entry-level model with the updated D3100.

Impeccable image quality up to 1600 ISO and very good up to 3200 ISO; 1080p Full HD video; Well-made and pleasant to handle; General responsiveness

Screen displays just 230,000 dots; ISO Auto: confusing handling; Autofocus only with AF-S lenses; Very warm white balance under halogen lighting

A very solid performer, but lacks a killer feature to make it stand out from the pack

With sales of micro-system cameras (MSCs) increasing, the position of the MSC's direct competitor, the entry-level DSLR, comes under the spotlight. While Nikon has hinted that it is looking into launching an MSC model, nothing has been announced yet.