Buying used entry level dSLR....

[pittsburghmom]

After an unfortunate accident involving a toddler, a bucket of water and my Canon S100, I am looking to upgrade to an entry level dSLR. I am just in the beginning stages and would like to buy used/refurbished to save $$$ and to help soften the blow if there should ever be any future mishaps.

Anyway, right now I am looking at the Canon t3 or Nikon d3100 as they seem to be hovering in the $300 range used on Craigslist. Of course I am keeping my eye open for a *great* deal. I need to get myself to a camera shop or something to actually test them out....

I just saw this listing on our local Craigslist and it seems too good to be true. There are no pictures included in the ad. I really don't know much about lenses, so any input would be appreciated!

Selling new nikon d3100 DSLR camera with Nikon 55-200 VR lens. Comes with box, cap, hood, filter and 5 year nikon warranty.

for Nikon DSLR cameras
Features a Silent Wave Motor and and Vibration Reduction

$180 (VR)


Thanks!

 

[photo_chick]

That price is too good to be true and makes me wonder if it's a genuine offer. Also just a 55-200 lens won't do you for shots of a toddler in action. It's way too long on a crop for indoor shooting. If you're shopping used check out the prices at KEH.com. They actually have a warranty on what they sell. Canon has a good loyalty program as well where you may be able to trade in your old camera for a refurb.

And insure your gear next time so when it gets dropped in the water you're covered. My personal gear insurance is a separate policy with my homeowners with a $100 deductible and it covers everything. Drops, spills, theft... It's a small yearly price for peace of mind.

 

[pittsburghmom]

Thank you for your input. I'll check out KEH.com! My S100 will turn on and take pictures, but the LCD display is distorted and it seems as if the auto-focus is struggling.....plus when the lens retracts it sounds "noiser" than normal. I'm wondering if canon would still take it as a "trade", or am I misuderstanding how that works?

Anyone have input on the t3 vs d3100? They seem pretty comparable....I'm leaning towards staying with canon as that is what I'm familiar with. I started out with a digital Elph then moved to the S100......

 

[havoc315]

Learning curve going from S100 won't be any different between the t3 and the Nikon 3100.
I believe they are pretty comparable cameras.

As someone stepping up from point and shoot, if you really like using the LCD to frame your shots, you may also want to look for a used Sony a33/35/37/55/57 which gives a superior live view, as well as some other advantages. (The main disadvantage being electronic viewfinder instead of optical, though many people see that as another advantage. Depends on tastes). Looks like you can get a used a55 for a similar price and I do believe its a slightly better camera.

 

[photo_chick]

Thank you for your input. I'll check out KEH.com! My S100 will turn on and take pictures, but the LCD display is distorted and it seems as if the auto-focus is struggling.....plus when the lens retracts it sounds "noiser" than normal. I'm wondering if canon would still take it as a "trade", or am I misuderstanding how that works?

Anyone have input on the t3 vs d3100? They seem pretty comparable....I'm leaning towards staying with canon as that is what I'm familiar with. I started out with a digital Elph then moved to the S100......

Canon will take broken cameras as a trade for the loyalty program.

The T3 and D3100 are both bare bones entry level cameras. dpreview.com is a good place to go and compare the specs. It really comes down to which one has the features you want and fits in your hands.