Is there any drawback to buying a DSLR from Amazon?

They're cheaper on Amazon. For example, the Nikon D3100 that sells for $589 in camera shops is selling new for $529 on Amazon. Is there any drawback to buying from Amazon instead of a camera shop?

Nope. Amazon is honest and reliable to a fault. They have built their reputation on delivering exactly what they say they'll deliver. An excellent company that I've done business with for several years.

I purchase most of my digital cameras from Amazon. They have a 30 day return policy, and if the product is defective, they pay for the return shipping.

The main drawback from ordering online is that you can't hold the camera to see if it's ergonomically suitable for your hands. This is not a problem, however, if you're already familiar with a particular model.

But if you're new to digital photography, or not familiar with a DSLR, paying the extra money at a camera shop has it's advantages. They give personalized attention and provide expert camera help not available when buying online. I bought my first SLR at a local camera store and went back many times for assistance. The help was both needed and appreciated.

Just don't buy from one of the Amazon independent sellers. It's totally safe, but I have had HELL with the private sellers. I purchased a lens and the first seller just plain cancelled the order and changed it to out of stock. That tied up $1400. I purchased from a different seller-he refused to ship the lens and wanted me to come to CA to pick it up… I live in NY. That tied up $1400. For 10 days I had to wait for Amazon to release the total of $2800. I purchased off ebay. Got the lens 2 days after the auction ended.
If you are buying from amazon directly it's great and I order stuff all of the time. Be wary about the private sellers.

Absolutely not! Amazon isn't nr1 online shop for no reason. Their prices are also cheaper, but that's because they can do that, they're on top. Thousands of people buy from them daily.

Here's a DSLR Buying Guide - http://www.the-dslr-photographer.com/2009/11/which-dslr-to-buy/

It has Amazon links for the cameras!