Are almost all DSLR 'image quality' the same when put in 'automatic'?

I need a DSLR with a swivel screen & 1080p video with auto focus… I'm leaning towards nikon d5100 assuming its one of the best dslr cameras on the market. And close to those cameras that are over 2, 000 as far as image quality.

Added (1). I domt care for features please reread my Q.

The D5100 is a nice camera but it is an entry level camera, and nowhere near best, and can't compete with Nikon's more advanced models. It lacks many of the features that advanced amateur Nikons have, such as in-camera focus motor, CLS commander master, FP high speed sync, etc.

It has the same sensor as the D7000, so it is more-or-less a dumbed down D7000 as it lacks many of the features of the D7000.

The mickey-mouse swivel screen on the D5100 model is just there to compete with the silly swivel screens that some Canon models have.

The only difference between automatic and manual exposure modes is that the exposure is done for you in automatic. In that regard, the image quality "can" be the same, but it depends on the situation.

For instance, the auto mode may choose different settings in ISO, aperture, and shutter speed - and those settings may not be optimum for the situation, and you may get a better photo in manual or one of the priority modes.

As an example, in a low light situation, auto mode may chose a high ISO which will introduce noise in the photo, while you may elect to use a lower ISO and tripod in manual mode which will reduce the noise in the photo.

This is only one example, and it is just that auto mode will not allow the flexibility of using manual modes. That flexibility can result in better or at least more creative photos.

If the camera is really for video, go buy a video camera! Why do you need a 16MP sensor to capture 1920x1080 = 2MP video? AF on DSLR video is awful. It hunts and isn't designed for the job. If anything the D3200 would be a better bet than the D5100 for AF on video because it has continuous AF on video, but even then zooming while filming is difficult. Get a proper camcorder with a proper powered zoom. It will give better video results.

By the way, AWBoater is wrong about several things. First of all, it was Nikon that started the swivel screen trend with the D5000. Canon copied Nikon, not the other way round. The swivel screen is not "mickey-mouse".It is very useful for overhead shots and for macro photography, plus it is easier to see in bright light when viewed at an angle, and when you pack the camera away in its bag you can rotate the screen so that it faces the camera body, so it is well protected.

Second, the D5100 is not entry level. The D3100 and D3200 are the entry level models. The D5100 is mid range, with a better sensor and more advanced features. It is not advanced as the D7000, but that is top-end of the amateur range. Most people don't need the AF motor. It's only relevant if you want to use old AF-D lenses or very expensive long telephotos, which would be much better on a D7000 body anyway.

If you really want video go Sony A57 or get a dedicated video camera. Go and handle a Sony a57 in a camera store (excellent large EVF image - better still in A65 that has a 2.4megapixel OLED EVF screen.)

In terms of still shots the auto setting will produce similar results for every brand under normal levels of lighting. Where it may not is under low light and backlit conditions for it is here that the special features on the more expensive cameras will offer better final image quality.