Canon EOS Rebel T3 or Nikon D300?

Hi I'm purchasing a new DSLR camera soon and am torn between the Canon EOS Rebel T3 and the Nikon D3100. Any pros/cons on them? I've read reviews and see video/photo demos, and they both look pretty good quality.

The best bet is to pop into a local camera store and have a quick 'handle' of both to see which one you prefer… There isn't an awful lot in it, though you will prefer one camera to another… And even if you don't buy instore you will at least know that you like what you are buying.

Both are pretty good quality. These are the two leading companies in the world, both make excellent gear. I happen to prefer Canon so that's all I recommend.

I recommend Nikon D3100 due to its better performance and high image quality, since you have already shortlisted two cams so you might know their features. I will just compare both the cams. D3100 is a 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens.
Here is what professionals say about this cam, I hope it will help your decision:

http://www.amazon.com/...2Q4KNDSWK/

If we compare both the cams, we can have the difference below:
D3100 shoots higher resolution Full HD (1080p) video but at a lower frame rate
The D3100 has a slight edge (0.3 f-stops) in low noise, high ISO performance
It has more than 10% larger screen
Better color depth i.e. 22.5 bits
It has a Significantly larger sensor APS-C 23.1x15.4mm
D3100 has a self cleaning sensor which Removes dust from the sensor automatically, avoiding spots in photos
0.3 f-stops more dynamic range 11.3EV
Capture around 20% more detail in your photos with 14.2MP resolution
It has less shutter lag of 279ms with 11 focus points and a contrast detection autofocus which Automatically focuses shooting video

D3100 is pretty much portable and easy to use

The D300 is a far better camera. The D3100 isn't. The Nikon D3100 & Canon Rebel T3 are so close, they're more or less equal.
I 'd go to a store and hold each one in your hands. Pick the one that feels best to you.