The D3100 feels and operates much the same as the D3000, though Nikon has surfaced a few more controls for direct access. Overall, it's a streamlined design.
Lori Grunin
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
The D3100's body is a little smaller and lighter than the D3000's--it's the lightest in its class--but Nikon has also managed to cram more direct-access controls onto it. It's quite a comfortable camera to shoot with, though it feels a little plasticky.
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More accessible
Nikon offers the same set of mode options as with most entry-level dSLRs, though Nikon goes a step further with its help system, offering a Guide mode that walks you through different types of shooting. There's Easy operation, which, like Auto, provides access to a limited number of options, as well as an Advanced mode (the second two screens), which describes the appropriate settings for the chosen scenario and then allows you to change the settings yourself. As with the D3000, my one quibble with this is that the controls don't always function the same in this mode as when shooting normally; so, for example, here you'd adjust shutter speed with the up/down buttons on the multiselector, while you'd normally use the command dial to change the speed. This might confuse some people.
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Connectors
In addition to a composite and HDMI out and USB connector, the D3100 has a connector for Nikon's proprietary GPS module.
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Live View switch
I like the placement and operation of the dedicated Live View rocker switch and record button. The four-way navigation switch feels a little more responsive than the D3000's.
