is d90 as good as d5100?

I had the d90 and d5100 and sold the d90. Comparing the two directly with setup shots, and taking them bot out for shoots, the d5100 always gave a cleaner, better image. Plus it makes 14bit RAW files giving even more PP flexibility.

I'm only really interested in image quality - hardware buttons, top lcd, etc are just fripperies. For me, I set the camera up in aperture priority or manual, have ISO assigned to the function button... that's already way more physical control than my 35mm cameras - what more's needed? If you're a very serious action photographer constantly juggling focus modes or the like perhaps more buttons are relevant, for most users.. learn a focus mode and exposure system which work for you, then judicious use of exposure compensation [hardware button on d5100] and iso [function button on d5100] cover most eventualities.

Don't really find the lack of focus motor an issue, my only manual focus lenses are big aperture primes and a macro for which manual focus generally a better idea anyway...

Would concede that the flash system was more sophisticated on the d90, though I've an off camera flash cable which does help with the d5100

Personally much prefer the size an weight of the d5100 [I have big hands - it's not an issue - you adapt]. The biggest lens I use is the Nikon 70-300VR, this balances absolutely fine. With a smaller prime lens you've a super compact and light system.

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