Nikon D3100 to pack 14MP sensor, 1080p video

Almost all doubt about the Nikon D3100 has been removed today as German magazine Foto Digital's September edition has prematurely posted details. The entry-level DSLR will in some ways pass most of Nikon's existing line and will have a 14-megapixel CMOS sensor, trumping the resolution of everything but the D3x. This and a brand new EXPEED 2 image processor will help it reach a light sensitivity of ISO 100 to 12,800, or more than the D90 and D300s.

Video would also be improved with support for 1080p where even the D3s can only manage 720p, although the magazine isn't yet known to have confirmed whether or not it will have the continuous autofocus lacking on all previous Nikon DSLRs. An 11-point autofocus system isn't new, but it would have a three-inch fixed display and Live View support.

The four new lenses are as predicted but would include just one budget lens, a 55-300mm f4.5-5.6 VR model. The others will carry a premium and will include an 85mm f1.4 prime, a 24-120mm f4 VR lens likely targeted at full-frame Nikons, and a very long-range 28-300mm f3.5-5.6 VR unit.

Both the camera and the lenses are understood to be launching on or very shortly before August 19. [via Nikon Rumors]

By Electronista Staff