D40 or XTi - help me decide

Hey guys,

I'm looking to buy an entry-level dslr and I've pretty much narrowed it down to Nikon d40 and Canon digital rebel XTi. Problem is, I can't seem to decide. I've asked around, read stuff online, but still can't make up my mind since I'm pretty much a noob when it comes to dslrs. If at all possible, I'm looking for unbiased opinions as I know there's a lot of fanboism when it comes to this type of stuff.

Help!!!

either is fine, get the cheapest

I think the D40 is cheaper..

I would suggest renting both and using them over a weekend and see which one you prefer. Most people would agree that "generally" Nikon has nicer ergonomics at the entry level and Canon has better "top-end" glass. The Xti also has lower noise at higher ISO. It's a tough choice though because once you get the bug, you can invest quite abit of money into either system.

its like asking do i choose a merc or a beamer... its all how it feels.

I have the Rebel XTi and I find the shape hard to handle. My hands are small. Once I put a heavier lens on the camera, things became easier to handle, but still I find I have problems with grip.

The reason why I point this out is because when you take a photo, you want as much stability as possible, otherwise your picture will come out blurry. So in order to have high stability, you need to be able to grip the camera well!

People say canon's are for sports photography, and nikon is for everything else.
However, I say... if you practice a lot, and have a bit of talent, you can shoot with anything!

With this is in mind, I would recommend researching what length lens you want, before purchasing a dSLR body. One good reason is so that you can purchase a bundle and save cash! Another good reason is so that you are working with more information, and can ask around in the forums before making such a huge purchase.

Im using the Canon XTi + Tamron 17-50 F2.8 (APS-C) combo as my permanent equipment. With this combo I find that I dont get enough zoom. So if I were to do it again, I would probably get the Canon 17-85IS.

Originally Posted by tienm23

I would suggest renting both and using them over a weekend and see which one you prefer. Most people would agree that "generally" Nikon has nicer ergonomics at the entry level and Canon has better "top-end" glass. The Xti also has lower noise at higher ISO. It's a tough choice though because once you get the bug, you can invest quite abit of money into either system.

When looking at an entry system such as a D40 or XTi, forget about the argument of top end glass if you are really an entry level photographer. What should concern you more is how is the glass that is included in the kit?

Generally, kit lenses are the low of the low from most manufacturers. After all, you don't have a choice of which lens since both the camera and the lens comes in the same box right?

Having said that most people generally agree that the Nikon kit lens is pretty good (maybe not the best lens that they make but better than most kit lenses). Combine that with the nicer ergonomics of the D40 - I believe the choice is clear.

But if you must talk about top end glass, Nikon over the years has made some of the best top end glass in the world....

I think the D40 can only autofocus with AF-S and AF-I lenses (those with built-in focus motors). So that can limit some of the lenses that can be used (such as the popular 50/1.8).

Me a D40 owner, a very happy D40 owner
got it back in May for $630+tax (from FS), got the case ($30 used from RFD), screen protector ($6 from DX), SB600 Flash ($300), UV Filter ($11 from BB), Sanyo 8-pack Eneloop ($17 from TSCC), boy, am I broke....

I did buy AF-S 55-200mm to try, but returned it b/c it's too inconvenient
Next goal is either 18-135mm (~$300), or 18-200mm VR (~$1000)

Had Canon SD200, SD300, S1 IS, S2 IS, S3 IS
wanted to try something non-Canon, and uses SD card

Now I am a Nikon fan, but still carries my SD300 as portable camera

Originally Posted by NiMSo

I think the D40 can only autofocus with AF-S and AF-I lenses (those with built-in focus motors). So that can limit some of the lenses that can be used (such as the popular 50/1.8).

This is significant.

If you don't plan on mounting different lenses on that D40 (the 18-135mm living on it 100% of the time, for example), you should be fine. Forget about Nikon's current primes and most of their higher-end arsenal.

I personally think the XTi is built like crap and feels likewise in my hands. Nikon's kit 18-55mm lens is better than Canon's, I say. SWM, better build, and sharp.

Originally Posted by NiMSo

I think the D40 can only autofocus with AF-S and AF-I lenses (those with built-in focus motors). So that can limit some of the lenses that can be used (such as the popular 50/1.8).

Yeah this was main my concern as well.

On the other hand, I played around with both at BestBuy and like the feel of the d40 much, MUCH better.

If you have to ask get the Canon.
(btw I have all nikon gear including a couple of nikon P&S's)

D40 gets my vote. Yes, you can only use non AF-S lenses in MF mode. But if you're considering a D40 in the first place, you're probably not the kind of user who will be interested in expensive primes or vintage glass.

The D40 is better built, and (imo only of course) handles much better than the Canon equivalent. Screen is nicer, too. The Nikon 18-55 kit lens is miles better than the Canon POS 18-55.

I still maintain that the best bang for your buck for an entry level camera is a used D50 if you can find one, though.

One other thing to consider if whether you've got friends with cameras. Being able to borrow or try out lenses is a definite bonus.

I'm an XTi owner and I've actually been in this situation before.

It's true that Nikon feels better and have all the physical features. But if you plan on buying better lenses, want more features and more megapixel; then go for the XTi.

If you feel that it doesn't feel too well in your hands, just buy a battery grip.

Originally Posted by o0aZuMi0o

I'm an XTi owner and I've actually been in this situation before.

It's true that Nikon feels better and have all the physical features. But if you plan on buying better lenses, want more features and more megapixel; then go for the XTi.

If you feel that it doesn't feel too well in your hands, just buy a battery grip.

I've tried the battery grip. It doesnt feel any better for horizontal shooting, but it does feel better for vertical, since the grip size is much thicker for vertical shooting.

Another update to this topic, I've checked out the D40, and I dont think canon has anything that is that low interms of features.

So between D40 and Canon Rebel XTi. Rebel XTi gets the vote for me.
Go check out this site www.d p r e v i e w.com They have a lot of information in the discussion boards.

Also heres another website for you to check out photos from each camera and lens combo. They have a huge database of pictures there.

http://www. p b a s e. com/cameras