I had a Vivitar 3800N before I bought Nikon FM10. But, I am greatly satisfied with the Performance of Vivitar in comparison with FM10.
Vivitar is heavy and is very much useful in doing the Long Exposure Time pics, but FM10 could not do it. Even when the Shutter Speed is 60, the camera shakes. Of course, with broad day light, it is easier. But with, little low light, it does not work properly.
Unfortunately, my 3800N broke. I wanted to buy one more basic model, that is fitting my Budget. FM10 came into the Picture and I bought it. I bought this model because, I wanted to have a camera that is compatible with different lenses. Vivitar 3800N can use only Pentax ’’K’’ Mount lenses and there are no great varieties in Pentax Lenses. But, with Nikon, it is possible that even the third party lens manufacturers will make lenses that are fitting Nikon Cameras in the first place.
I will upgrade my Camera Body from FM10 to some other better model soon. Can somebody suggest me what is the better model? I want a heavy body in place, as against very light as in FM10.
Still, FM10 is, I can say, second best next only to Vivitat 3800N for Amateurs. The person shooting with FM10 has to have a great Patience, which is very important in Photography. Of course, some pictures from FM10 have come really great beyond the expectations.
It accomodates MF/AF lesnes. I have a 70-300 (Macro) Tamron lens, which is indeed doing a great job in Extreme Close-Up shots. Of couse, it works in good amount of light on the Subject.
For amateurs, Vivitar 3800N is the best. It will cost only Rs. 6500/=.
FM10 is also ok for Amateurs.