Final Choice Time: Although I've been thinking about it for a few months, I decided not to move forward with the A6000 as it just doesn't feel right in my hands. I also realize I very...

GeneinChi Loc: Chicago, IL

Although I've been thinking about it for a few months, I decided not to move forward with the A6000 as it just doesn't feel right in my hands. I also realize I very old school and tend to go with what feels familiar. So....I've narrowed it down to two choices: either a d5300 with an 18-140 VR lens or a D7100 with the same lens. The 7100 setup is available for a shade over $700. The 5300 for a little less but not much. Both are available refurb at Adorama for good prices. Rational for the 18-140 is that It's the one lens that will cover all my needs. Going to take to Europe in December. Otherwise will be used for general photography other than birding. While I know everyone has their favorite brand, Please note I AM NOT MARRIED TO NIKON so this is not a brand war. Thoughts on either set up or alternatives for the same money? Want to pull trigger by tomorrow so I can practice with whatever I get.
Thank you in advance.

Cwilson341 Loc: Central Florida

GeneinChi wrote:

Although I've been thinking about it for a few mon... (show quote)

One big difference is weight. The 5300 is noticeably lighter. Either pairs very well with the 18-140 lens. There are difference in features but the quality of captures should be about the same with either camera. I use both the 7100 and 5300 interchangeably and the main difference in day to day use is the weight. The biggest issue would be if you want to use an older lens that does not have an internal focus motor, it will auto focus on the 7100 but not the 5300.

GeneinChi Loc: Chicago, IL

Thank you CW. Great info. My feeling is that sine the difference in price is only $10 I'm looking at th D7100 as it is something I'll definitely be able to grow into once I put on my big boy pants and learn all the intracasies of the camera.

Cwilson341 wrote:

One big difference is weight. The 5300 is noticeably lighter. Either pairs very well with the 18-140 lens. There are difference in features but the quality of captures should be about the same with either camera. I use both the 7100 and 5300 interchangeably and the main difference in day to day use is the weight. The biggest issue would be if you want to use an older lens that does not have an internal focus motor, it will auto focus on the 7100 but not the 5300.

dsnoke Loc: North Georgia, USA

GeneinChi wrote:

Thank you CW. Great info. My feeling is that sine the difference in price is only $10 I'm looking at th D7100 as it is something I'll definitely be able to grow into once I put on my big boy pants and learn all the intracasies of the camera.

I went to Europe last summer wit a D7100 and 18-105mm lens. That 18-140 lens will be terrific, and the D7100 will easily handle all the lighting conditions. The most difficult shots were those inside churches where flash is not allowed or would not be sufficient anyway. Learn the bracketing or in-camera HDR for that. Enjoy the trip.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

GeneinChi wrote:

So....I've narrowed it down to two choices: either a d5300 with an 18-140 VR lens or a D7100 with the same lens. The 7100 setup is available for a shade over $700.

The D5300 has the advantage of the movable LCD. Compare features, and see what's important to you. I got a refurb D5300 from Adorama a few months ago. Nice camera.

http://camerasize.com/
http://www.imaging-resource.com/IMCOMP/COMPS01.HTM
http://snapsort.com/compare
http://www.dpreview.com/products/compare/cameras?utm_campaign=internal-link&utm_source=mainmenu&utm_medium=text&ref=mainmenu
http://www.imaging-resource.com/cameras/compare/

GeneinChi Loc: Chicago, IL

Thanks for your reply dsnoke. Looking forward to learning the camera. Also picked up a refurb 35mm 1.8 Dx lens for low light issues from Adorama really cheap.

dsnoke wrote:

I went to Europe last summer wit a D7100 and 18-105mm lens. That 18-140 lens will be terrific, and the D7100 will easily handle all the lighting conditions. The most difficult shots were those inside churches where flash is not allowed or would not be sufficient anyway. Learn the bracketing or in-camera HDR for that. Enjoy the trip.

GeneinChi Loc: Chicago, IL

Thanks Jerry. You continue to be a great resource.

jerryc41 wrote:

The D5300 has the advantage of the movable LCD. Compare features, and see what's important to you. I got a refurb D5300 from Adorama a few months ago. Nice camera.

http://camerasize.com/
http://www.imaging-resource.com/IMCOMP/COMPS01.HTM
http://snapsort.com/compare
http://www.dpreview.com/products/compare/cameras?utm_campaign=internal-link&utm_source=mainmenu&utm_medium=text&ref=mainmenu
http://www.imaging-resource.com/cameras/compare/

mymike Loc: Tucson, AZ

I use the 18-140 on my D3300 as a walk around lens and it is great for my purposes. I also have the 35 1.8 which I use inside when flash is not allowed. Great combination of glass.

PixelStan77 Loc: Vermont/Chicago

I would go with whatever body you feel comfortable with. I like Nikon. That is me. I would suggest the 18-200 lens. Have fun deciding.

GeneinChi wrote:

Although I've been thinking about it for a few mon... (show quote)

Mr PC Loc: Austin, TX

I cut my teeth on a D5200 and it was great. I moved up in April to the D7200 (just a little more capable than the D7100 but very similar), and while I miss the variable LCD at times, the pro controls of the D7200 make changing settings on the fly a breeze. I don't want to go back to doing that with menus. Go with the D7100, it's a great camera and there are great deals around. I saw a refurbed body for only $500 the other day that almost made me get one as a second body. Good luck!

mymike Loc: Tucson, AZ

I also got a refurb 18-140 for $250 from Cameta.com

Bret Loc: Dayton Ohio

I would suggest the D71 or 7200...the focus motor inside the body will help with older AF-D type lens. Excellent choice on the 18-140...very sharp and versatile lens.

BebuLamar

The D7xxx series has 2 wheels and the D5xxx series has only 1. I think the 2 wheels make it easier to use.