Cheap and easy to use entry level DSLR?

I'm a Canon 60D user. My friend loves how I can change lenses and record full HD videos so hes considering a jump into the world of DSLRs but have no basic knowledge at all in photography yet. So he asked me to recommend an entry level camera with smart auto functions and easy to use. I have listed down four cameras according to the price i think is affordable to him, although I don't know his price range for sure;
- Canon 1100D
- Nikon D3100
- Sony SLT-A35
- Sony NEX-C3

but I never touched them before so I don't know which one to recommend.

I was doind some research on the

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Hope this helps!

Canon 600D is your best value for money at the moment.

Totally love the Nikon D3100.It's a brilliant little camera and is easily the best amongst the choices you've chosen!

I like the Canon too but it just doesn't compare!

Since the Canon 1100D is similar to your Canon 60D you should be able to help your friend learn to use it easier than if he bought another brand. You can also share lenses if you both have a Canon DSLR.

1100d. Plastic fantastic exterior hides a pretty capable sensor. Interface is somewhat similar to your 60d so you could help your friend getting to grips with and of course you can share lenses and flashes.

d3100: In my opinion the most bang for the buck you can find on the entry level market. Thing is designed with the novice user in mind and, in my opinion, Nikon does that better than canon does.

Sony.well… It's an electronic viewfinder which greatly cuts into battery life and it's not as responsive as an optical viewfinder. Add to that the lens lineup and I'm no great sony fan.

Nex. Pretty impressive camera. But it's not a DSLR.

I recommend Nikon D3100 or Nikon D5100. If your friend can afford D5100 then I suggest get that D-SLR. Although, Canon 1100D is also good but as much as possible I highly recommend the Nikon D5100. Or you can refer your friend to this site on top digital cameras at http://www.topdigitalcamerassite.com

I second the 1100D, or any current entry level from Canon

since you have Canon, and then he will have Canon, you can help him out with the control scheme, upon other things

A lot of photography and the related gear is personal preference.

Both Canon and Nikon make nice cameras. The best thing to do is visit an actual camera shop (not bestbuy/walmart) and try the different models within his budget to see which feels the best to HIM. I bought a Canon for its ergonomics/feel/menu and control layout and a fellow photog chose Nikon for the same reason… It is about personal preference.

The one thing to remember is to budget in extra money to cover an extra battery, memory cards, camera case, a USB memory card reader, AND taxes (these can add another $200-250 to the camera price).

The other thing is… If he goes with Canon, you will be more familiar with the general operation AND the both of you would be able to share lenses.

If for no other reason, the 1100D so you can borrow his lenses.

I would suggest you buying a canon camera so you both can exchange lenses and it would be easy for him to understand more things Canon EOS Rebel T3 12.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR