Nikon D90

Nikon’s D90 may be getting-on a little compared to the latest models, but remains a highly compelling choice for anyone looking for a good step-up from a budget DSLR. You get a 12.3 Megapixel sensor with excellent low-light performance, fairly swift 4.5fps continuous shooting, a maximum sensitivity of 6400 ISO, a large and bright pentaprism viewfinder, good build quality and a 3in VGA screen. As a feature-packed camera on first release, the D90 also sports Live View, and 720p HD video recording - indeed it was the first DSLR to record video. Completing the package is a decent 18-105mm kit lens with Vibration Reduction. A great package, but compare closely with Canon's EOS 550D / T2i, especially if you're into video.

Pros: Great ergonomics, VGA screen, 720p movies, 4.5fps.
Cons: Movie mode is manual focus and has video artefacts.
Overall: A feature-packed DSLR at the upper-end of this category.