Nikon D300 or Canon 40D what are your thoughts?

Question

The new cameras from Nikon and Canon look great. I am upgrading from a D40. I like lots of things about both and am kind of at a stand still. What do you guys think about each one? My favorite type of pictures to take are Wildlife and Landscapes with the rare sports session thrown in there. My teachers were no help either cause some are devoted to Nikon and others to Canon. My school rents lenses for both brands so thats no worry. Whats your opinion and why. The more detailed the better and personal opinions are appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

I am buying the D300 no question. The main reason is that I already have Nikon Lenses. As to the first answerer's points, the D300 also has live preview (I won't be using that) and has a massive 51 area auto focus.



There is nothing bad known about this camera. I saw some images taken at a massive ISO 6400 and they were beautiful. Some grain was evident but wow! That alone is getting me excited. Getting clear shots at high ISO means faster shutter speeds for your wildlife.

Answer 2

I think it is as easy as taking a Nikon body in your hands and then the Canon. The Nikon build quality is better most of the time. The layout is more user friendly and there are always more custom options.



The Canon is good bang for buck. Still good quality and Image quality is VERY good.



If you are serious about learning advanced functions like using slow sync and rear curtain sync with flash or very fine adjustments in terms of exposure the Nikon is for you.



It all comes down to price. They position the cameras so that the Canon is always slightly cheaper than the Nikon. The Nikon is always a bit pricier but with all the bells and wistles.



I came from Canon and wanted to go Canon again but the extra functions and build quality is what got this techno junky.



Go to www.dpreview.com and go to the Buying guide flyout and choose side by side option with the two models.



They are very close but you will see all the small differeces add up.



Regards

Louis

Answer 3

I would get the D300. 1) you already have a Nikon camera/lens(es). 2) the live preview feature mentioned above doesn't have the ability of auto focusing while in that mode on the Canon but it's my understanding that the Nikon can. Personally, to me Canon's have most of the settings that I use and adjust constantly burried in menus. At least that's how it's been on all Canon's I've ever used. Nikons have always just been easier to maneuver in my opinion... all critical settings that use and adjust constantly are all at my finger tips so my camera just gets out of my way and allows for me to make great images.



Both are fantastic cameras from fantastic camera makers.... you really couldn't go wrong with either choices.

Answer 4

Nikon's done it right. First of all, if you've ever used a Nikon DSLR, the D300 will be second-nature in your hands. Second, every lens you have and every new or used lens you can find will be compatible. Nikon has a longer compatibility history than Canon. Finally, read what JD Power has to say about the two DSLR systems.

http://www.jdpower.com/electronics/ratings/digital-camera-ratings/dslr



And here's a very detail review, with references to the Canon 40D and comparisions.

http://www.dpreview.com/previews/nikond300/

Answer 5

I would recommend the Canon 40D because it has better quality and its more reliable. Plus, for Nikon the battery dies faster. And, Canon is one of the most top sold brands in a long time.

Answer 6

nikon d300 has alot to offer than that of canon 40d. i suggest yo try nikon d300.

Answer 7

i recomend the canon 40d it has live veiw and a 11 point af system its one of the best cameras on the market