>Re: D5100 or D3200
>Hello Vedran,
>
>I have both cameras and have been running comparison tests
>between the two.
>
>First, don't worry about the articulated LCD of the D5100. You
>can just leave it in place like the D3200 and it will lock in.
>
>
>I've set up both bodies in exactly the same way so even though
>I'm using fine jpg the photos will have the same settings as
>close as the menus allow. I use the same lens for all the
>tests.
>
>The first thing that is obvious is that the menu choices are
>better on the D5100. One example is when setting noise
>reduction. The D3200 is either on or off. The D5100 gives you
>a choice of High, Normal, Low or off. The D5100 also has Long
>Exposure noise reduction On or Off. The D3200 does not offer
>this option. So do a little research comparing the menu
>options, especially the Shooting menu and see if there are any
>options missing on one that you may want.
>
>Next is resolution. A normal photo showing on the computer
>screen without cropping appears to be a little sharper with
>the D3200. It is easier to see at 100%. I have been measuring
>lens resolution using both cameras and the D3200 will show
>higher resolution.
>
>Noise. I think the D5100 has a more refined sensor. Up to ISO
>800 there is very little difference between the two. From ISO
>1600 on up the D5100 appears to have less noise, even if the
>D3200 image is down sampled to D5100 size. If you use noise
>reduction with both cameras the slight resolution advantage of
>the D3200 is lost and the two cameras now look nearly the
>same. One reason why I say the D5100 sensor is more refined is
>the noise pattern is smooth where on the D3200 it looks a
>little clumpy or color blotchy when looking at full
>enlargement.
>
>As far as handling of the bodies there should be no problem
>with either body.
>
>I don't set up my cameras to be automatic anything. I use
>aperture priority, AFS, single point focus, matrix or center
>metering, and choose my own ISO setting. I didn't test movie
>mode.
>
>I like both cameras and both can produce excellent photos. I
>have uses for the articulating LCD of the D5100. I find an
>improvement in resolution with the D3200, especially when
>shooting raw. However currently I can only view the D3200 raw
>files with View NX2. If I could only keep one body it would
>probably be the D5100 but it would be a tough call. For a
>beginner I would recommend the D3200 first because of it's
>simplified menu and GUIDE feature.
>
>Len
>
>

Thanks Len for this long explanation. I too have been confused on which one to get.