1 | initial version |
OpenCV 3.0.0 is the beta version and 2.4.10 is the latest stable release. Version 3.0.0 has additional functionality built in to it and has extra modules available through the opencv_contrib repository --> https://github.com/Itseez/opencv_contrib
As for which to select, it is entirely up to your preference and needs. Although I would recommend working with 3.0.0 as it has additional features and it would be a good idea to start getting used to it. I can also recommend two separate installs (one for 3.0.0 and one for 2.4.10) on your workstation so that you can use and experiment with both versions.
Take a look at this link. It should give you some idea for the transition from 2.4.10 to 3.0.0 https://github.com/mshabunin/opencv/blob/transition-guide/doc/tutorials/introduction/transition_guide/transition_guide.markdown