Camera Test: Nikon D3000 digital SLR

Product Unavailable Our suggested alternatives: Editor's Choice Sony Alpha 77 Entry-Level SLR Nikon D3100 All-Rounder Pentax K-5

Now that the race to cram more and more Megapixels into digital cameras is over, manufacturers are attempting to seduce amateur photographers who want to take better photos with cheaper and cheaper SLRs.

One such example is Nikon's new D3000, which takes the place of the famous D60 at under £500 with a stabilized lens (18-55 mm VR).  The body of the new camera hasn't changed much in appearance and still has a 10 Megapixel CCD sensor with no support for live view.

On the other hand, the three-point autofocus system has made way for a new module with eleven collimators which is much more powerful, and the screen has increased in size to 3''.

One other new feature is the D3000's guide mode which allows new users to start using their new toy very quickly.

> Test: Nikon D3000

> Product Survey: Digital SLRs and Cameras with Interchangeable Lenses

> Buyer's Guides: Our Pick of The Best Products