Which starter Digital SLR?

I've recently been looking to upgrade from my advanced point and shoot camera, to a starter level DSLR. I have good reason to name the two that I'm torn between. The first is the Canon rebel t3, and the second is the Nikon 3100. I have previously taken a class in which I used the canon rebel t3, and a friend of my has a Nikon 3100, and I've used that before. I'm really not looking to spend over $600 on the starter lens and camera body. As I said, I'm just beginning to explore the world of DSLRs. I like both of the cameras I've mentioned, and I'm trying to figure out which one to get. If you can think of any other DSLRs under $600, I'd really like to find out what they are.

Added (1). I'm now also looking at the canon eos rebel t2i, because it looked about the same price as the Nikon d3100, and it also looks good

I have used the Sony Alfa series since the original Alfa 100.
Although I passed it on to a relative when it was pretty well used and battered, its still going strong.
Major advantage is Sony quality combined with Minolta lens
and excellent anti-shake software.
Only downside is that the original 100 was a mighty heavy beast, but light in comparison to my other camera - a Hasselblad

In this case, i always recommend to use Canon rebel T3i, not only it is best selling camera but also with great features. It has excellent reviews; check this one that compares it to Nikon 3100:

http://www.amazon.com/...K420ZOC3P/

As you can see, Canon is easier to learn if you are new to DSLR; T3i comes with an instructional guide built in. The menu/navigation on the Canon is far easier to use than is the Nikon.

the price! Not expensive as i discovered it at a discount:

http://www.amazon.com/...004J3V90Y/

You won't be disappointed!