The Nikon D7100's direct competitor id the 70D, which I just purchased. As was mentioned, video and autofocus belong to the Canon... the D7100 has better, higher resolution sensor, 24mp vs 20mp Canon.

2 things really sold me on the Canon 70D... the articulated screen, and the touch screen. In live view, you can actually see the settings apply as your making them on the screen--hence, better first shot.

Go to Best Buy and try the 70D. Hold it, shoot with it and see if changing brands is worth your time and $$$.

It was/is for me.

There are many "helps" and tutorials on YouTube.com... just enter Nikon D7100, and a plethora of videos come up. Even some "Quick Tips" videos that should lend to your getting acquainted with your new prized possession.

Good Luck and Always Have Fun!

I had a Nikon D5100 but felt a need to upgrade. I looked at the Nikon D7100 and the Canon 70D. Both of these are billed by their respective manufacturers as mid-level, small (CMOS) sensor cameras. I did extensive research as I have a few lenses for the D5100 and really didn't want to start from scratch.

Cut to the chase, I purchased the Canon 70D (even over the 7D), and here's what made my decision... the 70D has an articulated screen--very helpful if taking video and shooting live view shots. Also the Canon has touch screen settings, which after owning a smartphone for over seven years, I am very aware of using touch screens, and this is VERY helpful. The 70D has stereo mics **AND** WIFI!!! Plus, Canon has an app for iPhone that I can shoot from my phone, and the images I shoot can go directly to my phone.

The Canon is fast, sharp, and takes great pictures.

Nikon seems to be lagging behind in the wifi department. Yes, I could have gone with the D5300, but I wanted a little more than that.

Am I sorry I switched? Not at all. The Canon is super-easy to use with the touch-screen controls, and in live view, you can see the adjustments to what you are about to shoot in real time as you make the adjustments on the screen.

Check out DPReview.com for side-by-side comparisons of the D7100, 7D, and the 70D. The 7D markII just came out this week, but again... I'll keep my 70D.

So I am selling the D5100 and all my glass to try to replace everything on the Canon. Kind of a pain, but well worth it. I'm glad I switched!