is it worth getting a Nikon D50 opposed to a D40, just for price (D50 cheaper but not as good)?

Answer 1

One answer: "It depends"

If you have legacy lenses from your old camera, then it will be better to get D50 because old lenses will not autofocus on D40, as explained above. Plus, you can get a better deal on D50 now since it is being phased out.
If you are just starting, then D40 is better. You will need new lens anyway and D40 has better newer processor (and lighter weight and smaller size). As far as the quality of the photos go - then people will be really hard pressed to tell the difference.
I think they both take superb photos. Nikon is not the type of company that will risk its reputation, especially on such product as DSLR. The final quality of your shots will depend more on the photographer (sorry) than this camera.

It is all the matter of which camera feels better to you, which will let you be happier taking pictures. So, just go to a store and hold them in your hands.

Answer 2

The D50 is a better camera than the D40 - I'd be surprised if you found a place that charges more for the D40.
The main differences are in the AF system. This is where Nikon cut corners to make the D40 less expensive. The D50 has 5 AF points, vs. just 3 on the D40, and the D50 can use all Nikon (compatible) AF lenses whereas the D40 can only use a select few. With the D40 Nikon did add some cheezy in-camera editing options, however.

Here's an in-depth review of the D40 including a list of differences vs. the D50: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond40/
And a full D50 review: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond50/

Answer 3

I like the d50 it does the job... d40 is for posers