You’re thinking of updating your DSLR – stay informed and check out the ten best new DSLR cameras for 2011. You wouldn’t want to pay good money on technology that’s outdated. You want the best lens, body and features. You’ve come to the right place, as we’ve got the scoop on the top choices in terms of the 2011 digital-SLR releases.

1. Nikon D5100

Purchase the Nikon D5100 for $749, body only, if you want it new. If you can deal with owning a used model, you’ll be paying upward of $560, while refurbished models are available from $739. it features a 16.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor. It shoots full 1080p HD videos and features a 3-inch Vari-Angle LCD monitor. While it’s not exactly an entry-level camera, it’s user-friendly enough for quasi-beginners, as well as more seasoned amateurs.

2. Canon EOS 60D

One of the best new DSLR cameras for 2011 is, without a doubt, the Canon EOS 60D, new for $999, used from $849 and refurbished from $869. Its main features include an 18 MP CMOS sensor and ISO 100-6400, expandable to 12800. The listed price is for the body only. DSLR pros describe it as a 7D fitted into a smaller, lighter body. The articulated screen is likely to make it popular among aspiring videographers. Overall, it’s a ‘super Rebel’ variant that entry-level users can aspire to.

3. Nikon D3000

The Nikon D3000 boasts breathtaking image quality and easy operation. The 10.2 MP camera has been marketed as “Nikon’s friendliest DSLR ever”.  It includes 3x 18-55 mm Zoom-Nikkor VR Image Stabilization Lens, a 3-Inch color LCD monitor. Its ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 1600, which can produce fair results even in poor lighting conditions. Used models sell from $329, while new ones are priced upward of $550.

4. Canon EOS Rebel T3i (Body Only)

Canon’s EOS T3i, known in Europe as the EOS 600D is one of the best new DSLR cameras for 2011, positioned on the upper entry-level niche. It uses the 18MP CMOS of the Rebel T2i, to which it adds the tilt and swivel 1040k dot LCD monitor seen on the more expensive 60D. Flashguns can now be controlled, thanks to the internal flash. Prices for the body only start at $660 for new models and at $630 for used ones.

5. Canon EOS Rebel T2i

The Canon EOS Rebel T21 with a 3” LCD screen and and EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens costs nearly $900 new, and upwards of $625 used. In terms of class, it’s somewhere in-between the high-end features of the expensive classic 7D and the low-cost, user-friendly ergonomics of the EOS 500D. Whether you’re buying your first DSLR or upgrading from an older model, this might just be the camera for you.

6. Canon EOS Rebel T3

The Canon EOS Rebel T3 featured here includes an 18-55 mm IS II lens and features the EOS HD Movie Mode. It offers a whopping 12.2 MP – the highest number in its class. The APS-C size sensor (22.2 x 14.8 mm) produces an effective 1.6x increase in the lens’s marked focal length when attached. The 100-6400 ISO enables the capturing of fine detail from dawn to dusk. According to reviewers, its biggest downside is its cheap-feeling plastic body. priced upwards of $509 for new models and from $470 for used ones.

7. Nikon D7000

The Nikon D7000 is a mid-level digital SLR, which features a high resolution 16.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor. It shoots at high speeds of 6 frames per second continuous shooting up to 100 shots. The dynamic ISO range is 100 to 6400 and it can also shoot full HD 1080p movies, with Full Time Autofocus. Its magnesium alloy body gives it a professional feel. The body alone sells from $500 used, while a new model is $1,200.

8. Canon EOS Rebel T3i with 18-55 mm Lens

This version of the Canon EOS Rebel T3i costs upwards of $829 new, $739 used and $780 refurbished. The 18.0MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 Image Processor help the user achieve high image quality and speed. The dynamic ISO range is 100-6400. The lens included in this bundle is an EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Type II Lens. The camera shoots full HD movies at a 1920 x 1080 resolution. According to online reviewers, this version takes the consumer level dSLR a couple steps closer to a mid-level make such as the Canon 60D.

9. Nikon D5100 with 18-55VR Nikkor Zoom Lens

Priced from $676.50 used and at $849 new, this Nikon D5100 bundle comes with the 18-55VR kit. Users are referring to it as a solid upgrade to the D5000, targeted at ‘prosumers’. It offers outstanding image quality, performance and low-light abilities, all packaged in a lightweight compact body, by DSLR standards. To the perks of the D5000, it adds a usable Live View and HD video with continuous autofocus.

10. Nikon D3100 with 18-55VR Nikkor Zoom Lens

The Nikon D3100 is by far the best choice when it comes to new DSLR cameras for 2011. it’s the first entry-level offering from Nikon which can record full 1080p HD videos. It is built around a 14.2 CMOS sensor and also has a 3” LCD. New features include Live View shooting, a wider dynamic ISO range (100-3200, expandable to 12800) and several smaller revisions.