WHat SLR Camera Should I get??? The Canon Rebel XTi or the Nikon D40 X ??? Please help.?

Question

WHat SLR Camera Should I get??? The Canon Rebel XTi or the Nikon D40X ??

Answer 1

The D40X is so new that I don't see any decent sample images yet. Can we assume (hope) that it would give similar results to the D80? It seems so. See: http://www.popphoto.com/cameras/3896/camera-test-nikon-d40x.html for a glowing review that even compares it with the XTi just a little bit.

I still like the idea that the Nikon has a spot meter and find it odd that the Canon doesn't. The Nikon is a bit limited in autofocus capabilities and speed compared to the Canon, though.

Here are some pertinent quotes about the D40X:

"Noise suppression was generally better than the D80's and much better than the Rebel's. As ISOs increased, the D40x's resolution exceeded that of the Rebel."

"The economy-model status of the D40x doesn't show in picture quality, either. At ISO 100, the D40x turned in an average resolution of 2075 lines, slightly behind the Nikon D80 and Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi."

Continue on down on page 2 for a direct comparison to the XTi. I'll let you read it for yourself, as it seems to lean slightly towards the Canon and it would kill me to write that. I'll leave that job for Koko.

But seriously, these cameras are EXTREMELY close in performance and value. It is true that there is a "problem" with older Nikon lenses not autofocusing on the D40, but if you do not own a bag full of older lenses, it is not going to be a problem.

You need to go to a real camera store and pick up both cameras and see how they feel to you. Some people will love the Canon and some will love the Nikon. Find out which one you are. You will be happy with either one, but you will be happiest with the one that fits your hands better.

See also:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/compare_post.asp?method=sidebyside&cameras=canon_eos400d%2Cnikon_d40x&show=all

B&H Prices, April 2007

Nikon D40x, 10.2 Megapixel, SLR, Digital Camera Kit with Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens - $800

Nikon D40x, 10.2 Megapixel, SLR, Digital Camera Kit with Nikon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens - $1,030

Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi (a.k.a. 400D) 10.1 Megapixel, SLR, Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with Canon 18-55mm EF-S Lens - $770

Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi (a.k.a. 400D) 10.1 Megapixel, SLR, Digital Camera Body (Black) with Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Autofocus Lens - $1,180

Answer 2

Anthony's given you excellent advise. I like the Nikon line, but Canons are excellent as well. You'll take fine pictures with either system. Right now, you'll find excellent deals on Nikon D40 & Canon Rebel XTi cameras, often with extra lenses. But, you really need to handle each camera. Canon & Nikon dslr's have their own "feel". What may be clumbersome for one person, may fit perfectly for another. Try different cameras and see if the placement of the controls work for you. How are the operation menus? Can you get to the settings you want quickly, and in few steps? Does that camera system have features that suit your style and lenses in your price range? Just like cars and shoes, you really need to try them on for size first! Hope this is helpful.

Answer 3

For a question like this, you should tell us more about what kind of photography you plan to do.

For instance, if you plan to do portraits, you will likely need slave flashes. If so, the Nikon D80 is far better as it has built-in wireless flash control.

If you simply want a DSLR for better photography (a great reason), the Canon and Nikon are nearly identical. I agree with Dr. Sam that you should go try them out side by side. One will seem to "fit" you, and you'll have your answer.

My vote: the Nikon. Why? better photographs.

Check out the reviews at www.dpreview.com for specs and details. Check out the reviews at PopPhoto for some in-depth reviews and comparisons.

One Note: Once you get started, you will be purchasing other lenses. Once you have a couple of lenses an a few accessories, it will be very hard to change brands of camera in the future. You might want to look at the lens and accessories available from each mfr too. Canon and Nikon are both excellent choices.

Answer 4

The D40 will not give the same results as a D80. It is a simple version of the D50, thus will have similar results as you would get with a D50. It loses a few features like the screen on the top of the camera but overall it is the same camera. I have had a D50 for over a year now and the quality of the pictures still blows me away.

Answer 5

The Canon Rebel XTi would be my choice if I were you . Also I'd recommend you checkout the Nikon D200 10.2MP (Body) Digital Camera and the Pentax K10D SLR Kit 10MP Digital Camera .

Answer 6

If you are starting, probably Canon is good. D40x is new in the market and is more expensive than Canon.