Nikon's entry DSLR with vari-angle LCD — 12.3MP APS-C with HD video and articulating screen.
The Nikon D5000 launched in 2009 as Nikon's first DSLR with a vari-angle LCD screen, pairing a 12.3MP APS-C sensor with HD video recording. It bridged the gap between the entry-level D3000 and the enthusiast D90.
The 12.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor — same as the D90 — delivers good image quality with clean results to ISO 1600. 11-point AF with single cross-type centre. 4fps burst. 720p HD video. The vari-angle screen was the headline feature for creative angle shooting.
Compact body at 560g. 2.7-inch vari-angle LCD at 230k dots. No built-in AF motor — AF-S lenses required. SD card slot. Built-in flash. Live View with contrast-detect AF. Nikon F mount.
Available used very cheaply. The D5100 improved to 16.2MP with Full HD 1080p video. The vari-angle LCD was a genuine innovation for Nikon at this level. Check shutter count — rated 100,000. A decent used DSLR if AF-S lenses are available.