Should I return my Nikon D5100 and wait for the D3200?
The D3200 is suppose to have built in Wi-Fi and 24mp, I bought my D5100 a week ago so I'm thinking about returning it. Should I return it?
Your choice
it will be announced, but won't come out for a month or two after that.
I say keep the D5100
Just keep your 5100.
The D5100 is a great camera, but…
The D3200, which is expected in April, has amazing specs, including a 24mp sensor. It probably not be available for a couple of months, but it'll offer some intriguing advantages over the more expensive D5100. But, if you return your camera for full price now (do it quickly), you'll might find a price drop coming. Keep an eye out for more info about the newer camera in the coming weeks.
Features and megapixels don't mean a better camera. First, let's say the rumors are true, are you really going to use Wi-Fi or do you just want it just to have it? Also, all Nikon dSLRs use Sony image sensors, most of them are really good, but I can't say that about the 24 MP sensor.
It's the same sensor used in the Sony A65 and A77.It's got great dynamic range, great for the price, the color accuracy is good too. Only problem, it's a dog in low light at high ISO.
Only Sony and Nikon know for sure if the sensor is 100 percent identical, or if it's going to be tweaked to Nikon specs. Also, Nikon does a better job getting more from Sony sensors than Sony.
Either way, that sensor is a dog in low light. I waited a long time for the A77 to arrive, and when I saw the RAW files, it was a major let down. By ISO 1600 the noise can be really bad, and luminance noise, the worst kind is difficult to remove without smearing detail.
Cameras like the D3100, and D5100 from Nikon, and Sony's A580 and A57 easily beat out the 24MP sensor in low light. If you can do without having a dSLR for awhile go ahead and return it.
But don't rush into a new dSLR until you can see the actual image samples for yourself. I wouldn't make a move until I can see that Nikon made improvements to get a cleaner image from that Sony 24MP sensor. Another thing to think about, the D3200 is a bottom of the chain camera, the 3100 is a 500-ish dollar camera, so the next one should be similar in price. Also, rumors being what they are, this could be a D5200.
Take a look at image sensor performance Sony A580, Nikon D5100, Sony A65 with 24MP sensor.
Absolutely! After all, you need those specs to impress your friends. Just think of the envious looks you'd get if you show up with a 24mpix camera. And that Wi-Fi connection, man, you'd be able to shoot directly to facebook! No more tedious selecting your best images and uploading.