Which one is better, the Canon 30D or Nikon D80?

Question

I chose two cameras that were in the same price range. Which one do you think is better? It seems like the Canon would be a better choice but I have no idea.

I am pretty sure Dr. Sam is going to answer and in that case, "I am sorry for driving you nuts." I just like to look at all angles before I invest that kind of money.

I am pretty sure Dr. Sam is going to answer and in that case, "I am sorry for driving you nuts." I just like to look at all angles before I invest that kind of money.

Answer 1

Hey, Kirr, I don't blame you for considering carefully, but I will stick by my last post saying that you need to FEEL these puppies in your own hands.

Even the Canon is 8 MP vs. the Nikon's 10 MP, the image quality really seems to be quite comparable. Go here and check the comparisons. You know how to do this by now. You will see the 30D compared to the D200, which is probably quite comparable to the D80 in image quality.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/compare_post.asp?method=sidebyside&cameras=canon_eos30d%2Cnikon_d80&show=all

If you ask a few questions, you will find out the subtle differences in how the cameras operate. The best I can figure from reading is that even this is quite similar.

Go to this page and read the pros for the 30D and for the D200. Again, bear in mind that this is the D200 and not the D80, but reading the chart - it seems like it applies to the D80 as well.

I am getting a sense that this is a lot of money for you to spend and you want to spend it wisely. I think you've reached the point where other people can not make up your mind for you. (Please do not take this as a request to stop asking, though. I am learning more details about all of the Canon cameras when I try to give you meaningful answers.)

If you are stepping up from the Nikon D80 at $925 (body only at B&H) to the Canon 30D at $1,090 (same), maybe you'd leapfrog one more time and look at the D200 ($1,340). If you make that leap of faith, then all bets are off and I will start telling you to get the D200. :-)
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Kirkus, I agree with you on the D200 and Nikon lenses.
Martin B, I like the way you simplify this process and I agree with your conclusions. I now recommend with exactly that same pattern.

Answer 2

Firstly- you've selected two of the top mid-level DSLRs to compare. They are both very well spec'd. The Nikon is just slightly less expensive, a bit smaller and lighter, and has 10Mp rather than 8Mp. Oh- and it has some better flash modes. But really- the differences are slight.

One thing that the Canon has over the Nikon is a 5fps continuous mode, rather than a 3fps on the D80.

Some believe that the Nikon kit lens is better than the Canon one. And- in either case- if you are buying such a nice instrument, consider investing in better glass, regardless. In fact- the lens decision is often more difficult (and more expensive) than the body decision. Heck- I've heard people taking the Nikon over the Canon due to the new Nikon 18-200mm VR lens, as Canon doesn't have anything like that.

There's no obvious answer here. They're both fine instruments.

Also consider the Pentax K10D. :)

Answer 3

Really, you won't go wrong if you buy either of these cameras! You need to physically check them out...go into a camera store and hold the camera. Ask the salesman to point out how to use all the controls. One of them might fit in your hand better.

I guess I'm old-school, but I never use most of the so-called great features on my camera. (I have a Canon 5D with the 24-70L and 70-200L f 2.8 lenses.) You need to determine what is important to you...and go from there.

Equipment-wise, you won't go wrong with either one of the cameras you're considering! Both companies offer a great line-up of lenses and accessories. Buy the best lenses that you can afford! While new bodies will continue to get better every year, and you may want to get a new body at some point, you'll keep the lenses far longer!

Answer 4

The question you should be asking is which has better glass (Lenses). Both of these cameras are up to the task of taking great pictures. I'd give the Lense edge to Nikon. Do you currently have any lenses? If so, which body do they fit.
I have a collection of Nikon lenses so it was an easy decision for me..... I bought a Nikon D200 and it rocks!!!!

I have friends that are pro shooters and they have Nikon's and Canon's. Hope this helps.

Answer 5

between the two, i will %. a 30D. yet once you place a D200 into the equation, of direction i will %. a D200. A D80 is a good digicam yet if you consider which you're asking approximately sturdiness, properly its made out of plastic jointly as the 30D and the D200 is made with magnesium alloy. function sensible, i might wager that the 30D and D80 rather comparable. in basic terms those with numerous adventure in photos might rather savor the ameliorations between the two.

Answer 6

Technically, the D80 is better, however the Canon is a beautiful unit.

Personally, I am waiting until the Olympus 510 comes out as it has image stabilization and sensor cleaning built in.

Answer 7

Yes both machines are terrific. My unbending rule will always be:
"Canon for compact" I have an IXUS 750, superb.
"Nikon for SLR" Great lineage, impressive lenses, sexier. I have a D70 body.

Answer 8

It's usually personal preference..

Me.. I would take the Nikon D80...