Does megapixels matter when taking pictures?

I'm looking to buy a Nikon used camera and I was wanting to know does the mega pixels really matter?

Mega pixel is just a criteria, its just not the main factor, for getting the best quality you got to have a bigger sensor rather than more megapixels fitting into a small sensor.

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Yes
if you're camera has more megapixels, then you'll have clarity in pictures you take.

More MP, more clarity.
Less MP, less clarity.

Hope this helped!

Yes.amount of pixel in square inch applies to details of quality in image,
also you may want slr/ as in digital-SLR with 8 / 10 or high mp range,
average size is around 12 to 14mp, quality size is around 20/24 mp,

Nikon 3100 14 mp (example) $649.95 body, requires lenses and/or accessories
http://www.nikonusa.com/...D3100.html
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Aqua Shot Under Water Digital Camera ~ 640x480 pixels (0.30 mp) very low
http://www.sakar.com/p-239.aspx?categoryid=170

Seitz Phototechnik AG - Seitz 6x17 (160 mp) very high
http://www.roundshot.ch/xml_1/internet/de/application/d438/d925/f934.cfm.

No. People make a big deal about mega pixles but it doesn't affect the average user. 5 mp or 15 mp, you won't notice much difference. Where it matters is how you will use the image. If you plan to print a large poster, yes it makes a difference. Most people print 4x6 photos and that'll come out fine. If most of your photos go on facebook or other sites, no difference at all. Because when you upload it, facebook resizes everything to their fit their page.

My iPod shoots 3.5mp and it prints out as good as my Canon 12mp.

what model of nikon?

It is the prime factor in determining print size, but that is pretty much it.