Canon or Nikon?

Question

I know it's the age old question but I'm really struggling. I've read the usual reviews at dpreview etc. I have about £400- £450 to spend on a digital SLR.

Here's what I'm looking at.

Nikon D40

Nice looking but I think I would use features like AEB and I'd like the flexibility of using non AF-S lenses so this really isn't quite up there

Nikon D50

Probably my top choice at the moment, feels good in my hand, I can get a great deal on a kit with an extra 70-300 Tamron lens but I really really hate that small screen and I can't help but think of the better features on the 400D.

Nikon D80

I wish...my ideal camera but just too expensive

Canon 400D / Rebel XTi

I can get one of these with the basic kit lens (18-55) for about £450 and in my price range it's easily the best specced, but I just prefer the Nikon setup and the way it feels. Is the increase in spec compared to the D50 worth it?

Answer 1

I'm more partial to Pentax or Lica. But if it were me. I would wait and save up for the one I really wanted instead of settling. So I would wait for that one.

Answer 2

So many above me have said it correctly. The way the camera feels in your hands is probably more imprtant than a whole list of specifications. This is what I tell people all the time. When you are shopping for a camera at this level, your opinion is the one that matters the most.

Having said that, however, let me share my opinion. I've heard some people here say that the Nikon DSLR's are more suited for people who want to move up in the world of SLR photography and the Canon Rebel DSLR's are for people who do not want to leave the point and shoot world behind, but want access to some nice lenses.

The Nikon is definitely "better made" and seems like it will hold up better than the Canon. I don't like the fact that the Canon lacks a spot meter. They have a "large" central spot that covers 10% of the frame. A real spot meter zeroes in on 2-3% of the frame. This can really make the difference between getting an accurate exposure and getting lucky.

To me, if you like the way the D50 feels, it is the best choice. Don't worry about the difference in pixels, as the 6 MP will give great results in everything short of poster-sized enlargements of the middle 20% of an image.

Answer 3

If you are too worried about the way the camera fits into your hand, the go for D50. But, I don't attach much importance to the form factor since all DSLRs(listed by you) are almost the same. But performance wise I'd go for 400D(aka XTi). I also like the wide range of Canon lenses compared to Nikon

Answer 4

Absolutely go for the D50, but if you reconsider your budget, then get the D80.
I'm sure you'd be happy with the 400D, as it takes nice pictures, but as you pointed out yourself, the ergonomics of Nikon cameras are so much nicer.

Answer 5

With these cheap point and shoot DSLR's there is very little to choose for the serious photographer far better to spend a little more and go for a Fujifilm Finepix S5 Pro or the Panasonic DMC L1 this sort of kit will give your more scope for your own creativity to show.

Answer 6

The Best Prosumer (people like you and me) digital SLRs
Nikon D80
Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT with 18mm-to-55mm lens
Canon EOS Rebel XTi

The Best Professional (getty images,AP,wire images) digital SLRs
Canon EOS-1D Mark II N
Canon EOS 1Ds Mark II
Canon EOS 30D with 18mm-to-55mm lens
Nikon D200

just start off with Rebel XT if you're a amateur.
it doesn't cost alot and it's a good camera to start with.

Answer 7

If you prefer the Nikon set-up GO FOR IT! I'm a Canon user myself, but YOU need to get the camera that fits you the best! I don't think you will go wrong with either system.

Answer 8

If you want sharp quality picture, Nikon is the choice. either D40 or D80. D50 is an old model and soon will be phase out

Answer 9

Nikon as the brand, I worked at a Newspaper in photography. The staff Photographers always used them, they still do even now its all digital.

Answer 10

I went nuts looking and I will tell you I got a Fuji finepix 5.2 meg. Its the best camera I ever owned. Cannon and Nikon are way over priced because of their name. My friend is a professional and he likes it also.

Answer 11

the two those manufacturers are stunning, each and each has little issues to advise it. Sony is likewise stunning. you may seem on the effective components of the fashions you have an pastime in and see if any specific characteristic is a 'might desire to have' for you individually. that is like asking the variety between Ford and GM motor vehicle manufacturers - each and each variety has its passionate followers.