'A middle-of-the-pack performer, with the exception of very fast start-up times, the D3000 doesn't improve much on the D60. '
'The Nikon D3000 looks and feels expensive; its build is similar to the more-expensive ($999 list, body only) Nikon D90 , but it's more compact (1.16 pounds) with a smaller grip and fewer buttons. '
'If you're an enthusiast photographer and want to learn more about how to take photos in different situations, there is probably no better camera to get your hands on than the Nikon D3000. '
'The slightly mottled plastic around the body is the standard Nikon feel, and overall build quality is excellent considering the price range. '
'Overall, the Sony A550 and A500 look like good camera designs with some interesting innovations that take advantage of the serious CPU power of Sony's processing chips. '
'The Sony A550 delivers several exciting and unusual capabilities, including in-camera high dynamic range images that come out very well, and a full-resolution burst mode of nearly 7 shots per second. '
'Sony’s Alpha DSLR-A550 is a mid-range DSLR aimed at enthusiasts, featuring 14.2 Megapixels, built-in stabilisation, a vertically-tilting VGA screen, two Live View modes and quick continuous shooting at up to 7fps. '
'On the downside, however, the site found that the A550 sits somewhat uncomfortably between the low and high-end, with its slightly stripped down controls turning off pros, and its rather weak performance in auto mode potentially being a problem for beginners. '
'with the DSC-S85 will be familiar to anyone used to point-and-shoots.'
'The addition of a Mode dial is very welcome, as it greatly simplifies camera operation and makes switching between Recording and Playback modes much faster and more intuitive.'
'Overall, a good, well-rounded camera, if not a little unremarkable in places due to lack of new innovation. '
'It's a digital SLR that's aimed at people who don't have a big budget and who are perhaps new to digital photography but don't want a camera with a smaller Micro Four Thirds–based system.'
'overall the camera is reassuringly solid with rechargeable NP-FH50 lithium ion battery inserted and the 18-55mm kit lens we were supplied for our test attached.'