Wich is the very BEST slr/reflex brand?? Nikkon, Canon, Pentax, Minolta?

Question

Plz help me wich one of these brands is the very best?
Wich one is the most recognized among experts?

Answer 1

There comes a point where all cameras are about the same. A camera is nothing more than a light-proof box, but today... the buyers are overwhelmed with features, most of which are totally useless.

Nikon, Canon, et al, all put out point-and-shoot cameras, compact cameras, consumer level SLRs and DSLRs, and semi-pro cameras for the enthusiasts as well as the professional level cameras for the working photographer.

Each camera company has their "flagship" camera and it would not be fair to compare a Nikon D2XS with a Canon S3iS... they're simply not comparable in price, build or features; the Nikon D2XS is a pro-level camera and the Canon S3iS is an entry level camera for consumers, so it isn't really a fair comparison.

But, if you're comparing a Canon digital Rebel with a Nikon D80, then you have a fairly good match to compare. That's when you'd start to compare how the particular cameras feel in your hands and the comfort level, how the lenses work and react to the camera, and the quality level of lens you're holding... a consumer level or a pro level lens?

Truth be told, I use Nikon gear. It has to do (for ME) with the feel and the ergonomics of the camera AND the quality of the lenses. So, with that said, I would have to suggest that you compare cameras (with similar features and comparable price range) and compare the lens and the optics' specs before you decide. I would suggest that you hold them in your hands and look through the viewfinder and see which FEELS more comfortable in your hands.

Which is better? "6 of one and half a dozen of the other." For sure, it would depend on what you intend to use them for.

Say, for example, that you're interested in a learning photography and you're interested in a film camera; my first choice would be the N80 because of its immense versatility; it can be used totally manual with or without auto focus (which I rely on because of my failing vision); or you can use it totally automatic, with or without auto focus. The camera also has THREE metering types (Average/Center-Weighted, Matrix and Spot) which will give you better results in varying situations with difficult lighting; also, it has a built-in flash that is great for fill-in light for when your subject(s) is/are standing in the way of the light (to avoid getting a silhouette), and it has an on-command grid lines to help you keep the horizon level when shooting landscapes and seascapes. And it has many features found in the pro-level Nikon F100, a pro level camera.

IF, however, you're interested in a digital SLR, my choice would be the Nikon D80, which mimics the pro-level Nikon D200 in features and results. The reason I'd choose Nikon here is the reputation of the lens' specs and quality of image details that will result, in addition to the sturdy and robust quality build AND the superior quality of the glass formula (all glass AIN'T made the same, nor are they the same).

When you're buying a SLR or DSLR camera today, a lot of what you should also consider is the availability of lenses for that particular camera and the future cameras you may also have. Nikon has not changed its lens mount since 1959, unlike other camera brands. There are many great used lenses on the market at great savings and a great deal of versatility of lenses, too.

IF, however, you're interested in buying a camera for purposes of taking it along on vacation or for special occasions... get something affordable that is easy to carry and easy to work and won't require much more than looking through the viewfinder and pressing the shutter release, a point-and-shoot camera which will not hurt your pocket much if you should lose it or have it stolen. Good luck and best wishes.

Answer 2

At the high end of SLRs it probably has to be Nikon or Canon, in terms of quality, range of accessories, versatility and sturdiness/durability. They really know their stuff, and that's why you'll almost always see one of these two brands being used by professional photographers at sports events, celebrity stakeouts and the like.

In the studio, or for more sedate outdoor use, you'd have to include Hasselblad and Mamiya medium format cameras - as they (along with Nikon and Canon) tend to be the brand preferences of choice for most professional photographers, and use some of the highest quality lenses available.

The other brand worth a mention, mostly for sentimental reasons, is that most professional photographers I've worked with or come across have a soft spot for Leica. It's not necessarily the best in terms of quality of output (which many stalwarts would disagree with) or range of products, but it has incredible snob value due to it's longevity and heritage in the evolution of photography.

Other brands, like Olympus and even Sony now, make perfectly good equipment - but these other ones (above) tend to be in a class of their own.

Answer 3

Everyone is going ot have their own personal ideas of why a Canon is better than a Nikon. Or vise-versa..but in the end it all comes down to which one you want or can afford. I would look at lenses you could conceivably want or need, compare them between the brands and see which would be a better investment.

I personally have shot Canon since the beginning of my photo training and career..something like 7 years now. And I love my canons. I've worked with Nikons and they're perfectly fine as well. I just stick to Canon cause I have lenses that work with it.

Happy Shooting which ever camera you decide to buy.

Answer 4

heh heh...like asking a bunch of people what the best religion is... :)


Me I like Canon and shoot 1 series pro bodies. I have quite a bit invested in Canon glass (lenses). I bet there is someone else out here who loves Nikon and probably another Pentax fanatic around. For a hobbyist - any of those brands will do. Most pros seem to either use Canon or Nikon.

Answer 5

It is all down to personal preference. You will not see any difference in the results from any of them. Especially if you are buying Digital. A lot of people buy a particular brand for "snob value" I always use Nikon because of their backward compatability. Most manufacturers change Lens mounts every so often, but with nikon, certain cameras can use lenses from the 1950's right up to this years models. It's all about value for money in my opinion: you can buy yourself a Leica for example, and unless you are enlarging your results for an exhibition, you will see no difference between the results from that, and a decent point and shoot camera.

Answer 6

Minolta went bust - were taken over by Sony eventually. Sony make good build, great quality SLRs. Amazing quality lenses too.

Canon - cheaply made plastic looking and constantly needing repair (manufacturer defaults), but simple to use.

Pentax - Excellent quality lenses and sensors, but poor build.

Nikon - Amazing through and through. Also looks more professional. Well made, easy to understand modes.
Not aimed at amateur market (like the Canons are).

Answer 7

canon is my personal choice, but the canon versus nikon debate has been going and will continue to go on for a LONG time. i prefer canon cameras because the controls seem a bit more intuitively located, and i like canon lenses more. the trick to buying a canon, however, is to stay away from anything with the name 'rebel' on it.

the main question you need to ask yourself is 'how much do i want to spend?' and go from there. if money is TRULY no object, go with the new 36 megapixel hasselblad digital SLR, it only costs a bit over thirty thousand dollars with one lens included.

Answer 8

For me it will always be Nikon .. and for no other reason then that its what i know and its never let me down .. But any brand is going to work as long as you lay down the money for a decent one .. I recommend the NikonD200 personally ... and also for the same reason the first answer listed .. almost all nikon lenses are interchangeable and that in itself is well worth it

Answer 9

The one in your hands.

I've shot with Pentax for 30 years and would recommend them without hesitation, but it's really down to how they feel in your hands.

Answer 10

Different camera digital got different way to use. So the best thing to know what the best for you to you is check the functions of the camera suitable or not for you. For me I prefer to buy Nikon. The best slr for me.