Lifespan of a slr camera?

Question

I would like to as, how long a NIkon D50 and Canon 350D can last. (Just take as if i take good care of the camera). This is because i am trying to find which of the two can last longer before i buy it.

Answer 1

Barring any problems with the electronics/ sensor, the shutter will be the first thing to go (being a delicate mechanical part). Cameras are rated for shutter actuations, and the Nikon D50 and the Canon 350D are both good for 50,000. If you take 300 shots a month, that equates to 14 years of use.
When the shutter eventually does die, you're looking at a $300+ repair. The D50/ 350D simply aren't worth that.

Answer 2

The more electronic bits, the more that can go wrong. The more basic it is, the longer it should last. I'd suggest going with whichever has the better warranty.

I have the same SLR that my Dad bought in the 70's. I've had to have it repaired, but the repairs are always less than a new camera would cost. The metal casing makes it a tank. If only it could tell stories...

Answer 3

I saw this question last night and it took me until now to find this (irrelevant) information, but I thought it was interesting, especially in light of the comment that the D50 shutter is rated at a duty cycle of 50,000.

In Pop Photo, January 2006, page 53, it says, "...the D200's shutter lifespan is rated at more than 100,000 cycles (compared to over 150,000 cycles on the D2s).

Answer 4

Both of those cameras will last so long that advances in technology will make you want to upgrade to a better camera and make it cost effective to do so. I can almost guarentee that the real expense for these cameras (the lenses) will remain compatible with future models, so you will just have to upgrade the body.