Which camera. Nikon or Canon?

Ok i love photography and i want something simple that takes great photos. I'm a beginner, and i've been looking at these two: the Nikon D3100… Or a Canon eos rebel t2i, or t3i. I want a digital slr. So my question is which one of these cameras do you think preforms better? And what are some outstanding good or bad qualities of each camera?

Go to a camera store and try them out and decide which one you like better.

I LOVE my nikon D3100! I highly recommand it! It takes amazing photos.

The Nikon D3100 is probably more comparable to the Canon Rebel T3 because the T2i and T3i are aimed at slightly higher level photographers.
Any of these cameras will perform about the same, more or less, so what it really comes down to is personal preference. I would really suggest that you try each camera out at a nearby camera/electronic store for yourself. See which brand's user interface is more comfortable to navigate through.

I like canons, they are wicked good. But i also recommend coolpix. I hav a touch screen camera by them and i love it!

First Canon: The only major difference between the T3i and the T2i is the articulated screen. If you don't need it? The T2i is $100 cheaper.
Now Nikon: your range of cameras tells me that the D5100 also falls within the budget. It's definitely an upgrade from the D3100 and has the same sensor as the one in the much loved new D7000.

Now it comes down to which one's features fit YOU. We can't tell you what is the best for you and your needs, one will fit you, one won't.

Go to the store and try them out. I recommend getting Canon T2i/T3i.

If a Canon or Nikon store is local then go along and try them out. If you only have one store local to you then go with that. You don't have to buy from them, Amazon or such like will probably be cheaper.
There's very little difference between the two makes and you will not go wrong whichever you choose. Just bear in mind whichever you go with you will probably stay with them for life.

Personal note;
I bought a couple of Canon T90's 25 years ago and although the lens mount changed when they introduced the EOS range and my 300TL strobe is not compatible with the EOS digital range, I still purchased Canon when I went digital. As I said, you will remain loyal for life. Now, when are Canon going to bring out a 90D, then I can finally put my T90's to rest? (I bought one for film and one for transparencies - something not required with digital)

Don't get too caught up with the equipment, just put your eye to the viewfinder and press the shutter - enjoy your hobby / passion.

And if all else fails, flip a coin!

See you can Compare Canon 1100D vs Nikon D3100 (both are entry level DSLR) http://thenewcamera.com/?p=3699

Now You can compare Canon T3i/T2i vs D5100 (all these camera are one step above entry level DSLR ) http://thenewcamera.com/?p=4464

D3100 is the best bang for your buck. There are no bad and good about them, it's 2011 and 99% of DSLR cameras excellent. Image quality is the same, there's just a few different features that you will rarely use.

T2i or D3100, it depends on the price. If you can get the T2i get it, if you know you will do lots of pro videos, get the T3i, but if you're looking for a light small camera - the D3100.

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