Best digital SLR for beginners Nikon D3100 *Est. $500
Step-up entry DSLR Nikon D5100 *Est. $0
Best-value advanced DSLR Nikon D7000 *Est. $1200
Pro digital SLR with full HD video Canon EOS 5D Mark II *Est. $2090
Best all-around pro DSLR Nikon D3S *Est. $0

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Nikon D5000

Discontinued

Reviewed

November 2011

Pros

Sharp flip-down LCD with live view
720p HD video
Fast (4 fps)
Good kit lens

Cons

Image noise at high ISO levels
Video only 24 fps
Autofocus points hard to see

Where to Buy

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Reviews have recommended the 12.3-megapixel Nikon D5000 as an excellent digital SLR for photography enthusiasts or even new SLR users, thanks to its HD video capability and live view, plus a sharp LCD screen that flips down for adjustable views. Lab tests show the D5000 sensor is excellent, and reviewers like the kit lens on the Nikon D5000 and the 4-frames-per-second (fps) speed for action shots -- all advantages over the Canon EOS Rebel T1i (*Est. $545 with kit lens). However, experts are now more likely to recommend the newer Nikon D5100 (Discontinued) or Canon EOS Rebel T2i (*Est. $700 with kit lens), both of which offer a number of improvements.

We found the most thorough, objective review of the Nikon D5000 at PopPhoto.com. ConsumerReports.org provides less detail, but it compares the Nikon D5000 with more models. The review at CNET is more critical, while DPReview.com provides even more detail, with ample illustrations and sample shots. DxOMark.com tests only the camera's sensor (just one factor in image quality and camera performance).

Where To Buy

Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD
(216 reviews) 48 Used from $474.00

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Our Sources

1. PopPhoto.com

Though Philip Ryan and Dan Richards give top ranking to the Canon T1i, the Nikon D5000 also wins kudos here for its moveable LCD and fast autofocus. However, the Canon T1i provides better video, a bigger LCD, sharper resolution and better image quality in dim lighting.

Review: Canon EOS Rebel T1i vs. Nikon D5000, Philip Ryan and Dan Richards, June 2009

2. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe

ConsumerReports.org compares the Nikon D5000 with 23 other digital SLR cameras, including close competitors, based on ratings for image quality, dynamic range, versatility and ease of use. Editors also compare camera brands for reliability.

Review: Digital SLRs, Editors of ConsumerReports.org

3. CNET

CNET's review of the Nikon D5000 is more critical than most, noting a small, dim viewfinder, autofocus points that are hard to see, plus limited video capabilities. However, kudos go to the flip-down LCD, 4 fps speed, good kit lens and overall image quality; thus the Nikon D5000 slightly edges out the competing Canon T1i here.

Review: Nikon D5000, Lori Grunin, Dec. 2009

4. DPReview.com

This detailed single-product review of the Nikon D5000 compares it with its major competitors, giving it the same overall rating (highly recommended) as the Canon T1i and Olympus E-620. The Nikon's advantages and disadvantages are noted in detail, including the fact that the articulating LCD can make tripod-mounting tedious.

Review: Nikon D5000 Review, Richard Butler, June 2009

5. DXOMark.com

Lab tests here evaluate digital-camera sensors, only one factor that affects image quality. The Nikon D5000 sensor ranks 18th here, higher than any other sensor in its price range. The Canon T1i, in contrast, ranks 55th.

Review: Tests and Reviews for Nikon D5000, Editors of DxOMark.com

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