I want to upgrade to a dslr i was just wondering what everybody would recommend for a beginner on a budget?

I take a lot of photos but mainly on my iPhone, I want to try photography properly but am cautious about spending a lot of money. I was thinking a Nikon d3100 but am worried it is too old, what would you recommend?

First, the Nikon D3100 is not too old for you to try photography. It has all the controls you need, and it will take perfectly good photos.

Second, I would recommend getting one level up to the Nikon D5000 series, such as the D5100.

Third, may I suggest buying used? KEH.com is a good place to shop and they offer returns and warranty programs.

Fourth, the next best investment is in yourself. Local photography courses and/or online photography courses are excellent but getting advice from a mentor can work also.

All dSLRs are good. They are all basically the same. The cheapest dSLRs (like the D3100) are the hardest to use. I'd recommend you get at least a mid-level dSLR (like the D7500, K70 and 80D) to enjoy shooting, even if you use Auto mode all the time.

3100 takes fine photos. Not too old. I have a D 3000. Still works fine.