which slr camera is better?

Question

is alpha by sony or D80 by nikon?

Answer 1

I too would go for the Nikon D80.

Answer 2

Which would you choose - a Nikon or a Konica/Minolta? Sony basically bought out Minolta and put their name on the camera. This is Sony's first DSLR and the D80 is simply the latest evolution of Nikon's years of experience. I wouldn't want to own anyone's "first ever" product, even if it was named "Camera of the Year."

When it comes time to buy lenses, do you want to be stuck with the limited amount of lenses that fit the Sony/Konica/Minolta mount or the endless selection of Nikon and Nikon-compatible lenses?

Yes, my bias is showing, but I'd buy the Nikon in a heartbeat over the Sony.

See the noise level in the Sony at this page:
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond80/page27.asp

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/compare_post.asp?method=sidebyside&cameras=sony_dslra100%2Cnikon_d80&show=all

Click on "Our in-depth review" and "Read owner opinions."

In the owner opinions, I gleaned a few interesting comments, even from positive reviews:

"If I had the bucks, I'd go Nikon."

"I have some noise issues at ISO400 and above... for professional use only ISO up to 200 seems acceptable."

"...please start performing at your full potential as soon as possible.We all know you can perform better."

"This seems to say, 'Sony doesnt care about photography, Sony cares about money'."

"I think this camrea is a nice beginning for Sony, but not the camera I will buy."

"Would like dual aperture and shutter control dials... [instead of a single dial for everything]."

Answer 3

I bought the D80 maybe cause I've owned Nikons for decades but definitely for the value and quality...range of suitable lenses and great reputation...yes I too am spoiled and very biased

Answer 4

D80

Answer 5

Of those 2, I prefer nikon however, check this comparison out and watch the new Pentax K10D beat all current 10 meg DSLR's

http://neocamera.com/feature_compare_10mp_dslr.html