Canon vs. Nikon...help me choose my 1st dSLR! UPDATED

DieClash · November 28, 2009 9:38AM

OK. I know there are at least a couple dozen digital shutterbugs who post regularly here on the CU boards.

I am going to purchase a real SLR digital camera and I've narrowed down my choices to 4 models:

Nikon D90 versus Canon Rebel EOS Xt1i

and

Nikon D5000 versus Canon Rebel EOS Xsi

The D90 is a bit pricy for my budget, but I am looking at the best value for my dollar, and will consider the biggest punch for the buck.

What would you buy?

EDITED:

My Fujifinepix S5000 finally bit the dust! I think the sensor went bad, which may explain my rather bad images of late.

Thanks for all of the advice from my fellow forumites, I pulled the trigger on a Cannon EOS Rebel XSi (450D). Fresh out of the box today! The kit includes a NiMH battery, battery charger, EF-S18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens. I also added a remote shutter release and a Sigma 105mm F2.8 Macro lens. The entire outfit set me back $1K, but so far I'm liking it.

Cheers!

BaseballAbs · November 28, 2009 9:51AM

Hard pick, They all are real nice. Both brands are at the top. Most the parts are all made in the same place i hear. You also may be paying more money for a very little amount of more meat. When it comes to all electronics you really need to figure out what your needs are and stick with that. It will all be outdated in 6 months with a camera anyway.

Bochiman · November 28, 2009 9:54AM

I went through this earlier this year. I bought the D90.
What I saw were that the comparable units (like you listed) were very comparable indeed....including pricing.

So, what made the difference for me was more of what my friends/family already had....so I could more easily get support/answers from them

(that's already worked out well).

Also, consider that you will be married to the brand once you start getting lenses. So, check the prices/ratings of the lenses you will want.
You may change the camera later, but changing out all the lenses to a different brand (from Canon to Nikon or vice-versa) could be a super expensive thing to do.

I now own 5 lenses for my Nikon DSLR. I have over $2500 in those lenses and only $900 into the camera. Whenever I decide to get another camera, part of it will be decided on whether or not my lenses are able to move to the new camera or not.

Both will take great photos for you, so, whichever way you go, you won't regret the photos...just maybe the lenses/prices/and what others may be able to help you with.

blu62vette · November 28, 2009 9:57AM

Nikon.

OneCent · November 28, 2009 10:08AM

I think that overall, Nikon glass has the edge on Canon glass. From either manufacturer, a 100mm Macro lens will set you back anywhere between $500 -$800 or so depending upon the particular model. Of course you could use an off-brand lense like Sigma or Tamaron, which are quite good but not nearly as good as either of the other two.

I personally have my eye on a Canon D-50 body with this lens.

DennisH · November 28, 2009 10:19AM

When I was shopping I was looking a couple of steps higher up the feeding chain. The specs of both brands are very similar, but the deciding factor for me was build quality and "feel" in my hand.

Despite having used Canon film SLRs for over 20 years, I chose Nikon... and I haven't regretted it for a second.

speety · November 28, 2009 10:21AM

I absolutely LOVE my Canon Rebel XSi. Honestly, any DSLR will be able to do everything you could want for coin pics. It's best (imho) to buy the cheaper DSLR and put the money into the lens, that's where you will notice the difference.

smet · November 28, 2009 10:52AM

I bought a D90 about 2 weeks ago and its great. I would definitely recommend it.

LeeG · November 28, 2009 11:00AM

<< It's best (imho) to buy the cheaper DSLR and put the money into the lens, that's where you will notice the difference. >>

Bought the NIKON D60 with a Tamron 90mm lens. Hindsight, should have got more lens.

messydesk · November 28, 2009 11:08AM

You do realize you're asking people to take sides in a holy war similar to Ford vs. Chevy, Coke vs. Pepsi, PC vs. Mac, etc., don't you?

Nikon. The bang for the buck that Nikon will deliver that Canon can't is access to over 30 years worth of lenses (50 with a minor modification to the lens) and accessories. Not so with Canon. NIkon also has a better fit and finish on most of their stuff as far as I'm concerned, and just feels better to use for me.

adamlaneus · November 28, 2009 11:09AM

Canon.

percyb · November 28, 2009 11:11AM

Canon. They have better lenses.

fcloud · November 28, 2009 11:13AM

I have used Nikon film cameras for many years and would alway recommend that brand; however, Canon is also a great camera. Don't go by what others think. Go to a camera store or electronic store and get what fits you best. You would not be disappointed by either.

bestmr · November 28, 2009 11:16AM

IDK if you have already done this, but before you even decide, go to like Bestbuy and play with each of them. While they may all have somewhat similar specs, Canon and Nikon have different ergonomics. Back when I worked at Circuit City, I would see salespeople recommending just on specs but then have the customer return/exchange it because they didn't like the way it felt. I've been a Canon guy since the D60 so when I handle a Nikon, I get confused.

If you haven't already, check out sites like Dpreview or Fredmiranda. As far as glass goes, Nikon has the edge in wide angle where as Canon has better telephoto. However, macro's are generally one of the best lenses no matter what brand you decide on.
Also, if your short on $$ like me, every now and then, Newegg has promotions like 12 months no interest no payments. I'm looking at getting a telephoto so I've been keeping an eye on them.

mgoodm3 · November 28, 2009 12:00PM

They are both fine. As already stated, The ability to use old (still very good) lenses on Nikon is a bit of an advantage and can save you some money. Otherwise you won't be able to tell any significant difference in image quality between the two.

lkeigwin · November 28, 2009 12:11PM

Thank you, Mark. I agree.

It doesn't matter. There are bigger factors influencing the quality of your pictures than whether they were taken with a Nikon or a Cannon or a Sony or a Pentax.

If you want to learn to play the piano what you start with makes little difference.
Lance.

soty27 · November 28, 2009 12:15PM

<< 

<< It's best (imho) to buy the cheaper DSLR and put the money into the lens, that's where you will notice the difference. >>

Bought the NIKON D60 with a Tamron 90mm lens. Hindsight, should have got more lens. >>

I would go with nikon as that is also what I use. The nikon d60 is more then enough. The lens is what matters, I have the nikon with the 150 macro and its perfect. .

Bochiman · November 28, 2009 12:22PM

One caveat as people recommend the "low" end.
For coins, you probably won't notice much (or any) difference.
If you use the camera for different things, research to make sure it does what you want.

I went with the D90 over the D60 (nikons both) for some of the features. I use it with my coins and my son's sports (basketball, soccer, baseball) and our vacations as well.
D60 would have been ok, but I think the D90 was a better one for us.

Ciccio · November 28, 2009 12:29PM

I had the same diletta last year. My selection was narrowed down to a Nikon, a Sony and a Canon.
A friend of mine who is a professional photographer, told me to choose the one I like most. They all have pros and cons.
Make sure you take the one that fits better on your hands.
I ended up with a Canon Rebel XSi and I am very satisfied with it.

B&H in NY has the best prices and bundles. Check their website.
I paid $850 for the the body plus a 18-55 lens and an addictional 55-250 lens.
In other stores the same price was just for the body and one lens.

Ciao

Bochiman · November 28, 2009 12:32PM

<< I had the same diletta last year. My selection was narrowed down to a Nikon, a Sony and a Canon.
A friend of mine who is a professional photographer, told me to choose the one I like most. They all have pros and cons.
Make sure you take the one that fits better on your hands.
I ended up with a Canon Rebel XSi and I am very satisfied with it.

B&H in NY has the best prices and bundles. Check their website.
I paid $850 for the the body plus a 18-55 lens and an addictional 55-250 lens.
In other stores the same price was just for the body and one lens.

Ciao >>

Good points....I did the holding them in my hands as well. You definitely want to do this.
B&H and Adorama are great places on the net, and for most of us, tax free.

If you do use them, use bing cashback.....some good deals get better that way (just moved $146 from an adorama lens purchase into my paypal then back account this week...that's $146 that I would have spent anyway and not got back if I didn't use the bing cashback).

NeoStar · November 28, 2009 12:52PM

It's best (imho) to buy the cheaper DSLR and put the money into the lens, that's where you will notice the difference.

Couldn't agree more. Nikon D60 with a 180mm Sigma Macro lens for me. It works great!

Raybo · November 28, 2009 1:32PM

You will get outstanding results will ALL DSLR cameras.

Get a Pentax, you can use any lens EVER made with them.

Ray

fcloud · November 28, 2009 1:34PM

<< You will get outstanding results will ALL DSLR cameras.

Get a Pentax, you can use any lens EVER made with them.

Ray >>

Ray, even the screw mounts?

RWB · November 28, 2009 1:36PM

"Buy" the lens, not the camera body.

I.e.: select your equipment based on image quality as provided by the lens and to a lesser extent the camera's imaging system (the CCDs, etc.). The camera body is more a matter of individual preference with Canon or Nikon. I've used both and like (and hate) both.

TomB · November 28, 2009 1:46PM

I used a Canon film SLR from 1979-2005 when I finally found a digital camera that allowed me to retire my film camera. The DSLR I purchased was a Nikon D70 and the camera is terrific. Both brands are very high quality. Both brands will allow you to do most anything you want in terms of imaging. Both brands have more features built into their cameras than you likely need. I purchased the Nikon D70 because of the feel of the camera. It has significantly more heft to its construction than other cameras and is larger, too. Not only do I like the added heft, but the larger size is a plus since I have large hands. Play with both cameras for a bit before making your decision.

cheezhed · November 28, 2009 1:50PM

I use a Nikon D40x:

HKstrongside · November 28, 2009 2:19PM

It's all about the glass. Both Canon and Nikon are great brands to choose from and I don't think you will go wrong with either brand. Once you choose one, you will want to stick with it. Like several have said, with digital these days the bodies change every year. But the glass stays the same. Invest your money in professional lenses and then save a few bucks on the body, because chances are you will be upgrading it soon.
I shot with the same film body for 3 years, then digital came along and I have been through 3 bodies in 5 years. One thing that I have been able to carry through are my lenses. I am a Canon man. I have invested almost $5000 in L glass. I have been able to use them with all my digital bodies. Choose the camera that feels best to you and then stick with that brand.
I have to disagree with those that recommend aftermarket lenses like Sigma and Tamron. Always match your lens brand to your body brand and you will never go wrong. Spend the extra money for the better lens, and save a few on the body.

myth · November 28, 2009 2:20PM

both are good in their own ways.... but like posted once you buy into one and get different lenses then you will feel a little stuck... as a photographer I would say you can't go wrong either way...
but for the best price I would recommend B&H photo in NY for the best prices. (spam not intended) I just find their customer service to be the best and they are very helpful if you have questions.

mustanggt · November 28, 2009 2:27PM

Personal preference, Nikon (D90 would be a great choice)

bestmr · November 28, 2009 2:33PM

I agree with B&H. I've bought a couple grand from them and never had any issues. If, however, you live in NY and don't want to pay sales tax, I recommend Canogacamera. I have bought several lenses and a couple bodies and are GREAT to deal with. If you don't mind buying used, you can go on the buy and sell boards at fredmiranda. They have a rating system so you can see if they are a bad seller, good seller, ect. For the most part, they upgrade their body/lens and then sell the old one. I've bought and sold from there a couple times.

Raybo · November 28, 2009 3:20PM

<< 

<< You will get outstanding results will ALL DSLR cameras.

Get a Pentax, you can use any lens EVER made with them.

Ray >>

Ray, even the screw mounts? >>

Yes every lens ever made for Pentax can be used on their DSLR cameras.

You will need the M42 to P/K adaptor for the old screw mount lenses (about $40 from Pentax but you can buy knock-offs for $10), the only cavet is they will be totally manual.
The old lenses do not have the contacts to communicate with the camera so you will have to figure out your own exposure settings.

BaseballAbs · November 28, 2009 4:48PM

What kind of lens are you considering?

Raybo · November 28, 2009 5:04PM

<< It's all about the glass. Both Canon and Nikon are great brands to choose from and I don't think you will go wrong with either brand. Once you choose one, you will want to stick with it. Like several have said, with digital these days the bodies change every year. But the glass stays the same. Invest your money in professional lenses and then save a few bucks on the body, because chances are you will be upgrading it soon.
I shot with the same film body for 3 years, then digital came along and I have been through 3 bodies in 5 years. One thing that I have been able to carry through are my lenses. I am a Canon man. I have invested almost $5000 in L glass. I have been able to use them with all my digital bodies. Choose the camera that feels best to you and then stick with that brand.
I have to disagree with those that recommend aftermarket lenses like Sigma and Tamron. Always match your lens brand to your body brand and you will never go wrong. Spend the extra money for the better lens, and save a few on the body. >>

I'm sorry but your post is utter BS.

PM me if you would like to talk about it.

Ray

ldhair · November 28, 2009 5:15PM

I really don't care about the camera body.
The glass is all that counts for me.
Sigma macro are my favorite.

DieClash · November 29, 2009 4:18AM

Wow! I knew I could trust the forumites to post their advice, opinions, expertise and suggestions. Many Thanks!!

OneCent, that's some macro lens!!

bestmr, thanks for the links to dpreview and fredmiranda. I will check them out.

I have read the dSLR reviews on both PCmag.com and CNet.com.

Also, the December issue of Consumer Reports magazine rates dSLR bodies and lenses. The four in my OP are all recommended buys from CR and pcmag lists the Nikons and Canon models as Editor's Choices.

I was considering a bundled kit that includes a 18-55mm lens and a 55-100mm lens.

From reading this thread it would also appear that I should consider a macro lens for coin imaging.

Thanks all!

One more question, which detector technology is better, CCD or CMOS and why?

Ciccio · November 29, 2009 5:31AM

Hey DieClash, you may want to check what Steve says.
It is an interesting and well detailed website.

RalphP13 · November 29, 2009 5:35AM

I went through a similar decision making process this spring.

As stated many times above, I'm sure you will be happy with either and certainly I think you'll notice a significant difference between a digital SLR and a "point and shoot" camera.

As was also mentioned many times above, my choice ended up being the strong reputation of Nikon lenses. In the end, I ended up choosing a Nikon D90. I couldn't be happier with my choice. Be aware, the investment in lenses when you switch to a dSLR can be significant. For shooting coins you may want to invest in a good macro (Nikon calls them micro) lens. Just this single lens can be costly.

Thanks, Ralph

stev32k · November 29, 2009 5:39AM

I've been a Nikon user for over 30 years, but I did use a friends Canon for about two weeks and after getting used to the (slight) differences in the dials and buttons I could not see any difference in the finished prints. So as most others have said get the one feels the best. There will be no difference in the images when they are printed or posted. The one advantage Nikon has is the ability to use older lenses. My one strong recommendation is to get better lenses if you can afford them at all. The Nikon 17-55, f2.8 is a wonderful DX lens and the extra stops can make a big difference in shots taken in low light. The Nikon 105mm, f2.8 micro lens can be used for coins or for general photography.

Used Nikon lenses are usually a good bargain and there are several places to buy them. I've dealt with KEH in Atlanta since they started up in the 80's and have had nothing but good results. You can sometimes find good to reasonable deals on ebay also. Again, I'll echo what others have already said - camera bodies will come and go but the lenses will last your lifetime so get the best you can afford.

myth · November 29, 2009 6:59AM

I would say that bundles are nice you get more lenses... but they typically are not high end lenses. I think its best to buy the body then the lenses that will suit what you are looking for. The nikkor 105mm f/2.8 micro is a very nice lens for.
another thing you may want to research is the differences in lenses. They do get costly (more then the camera) most of the time.

Barry · November 29, 2009 7:44AM

I owned a Nikon SLR before going digital and had noth Nikon and Tomron lenses. Happy with all of them.

Also, another vote for B&H. Great prices and service over many years for home and office (medical photography).

crazyhounddog · November 29, 2009 7:47AM

NIKON!!!

CollectorMan · November 29, 2009 8:01AM

Nikon or Cannon (myself, I like Nikon). Buy the cheapest camera body and put your money on a good lens. A good quality glass lens will always outdo the most sophisticated camera body.......always!

mrearlygold · November 29, 2009 8:33AM

I continue to procrastinate on this issue but I THINK I'm going to buy a Nikon outfit and Sigma macro. When? Well I was supposed to do this over a month ago. Well, maybe 2 months ago. Would you believe 3 months ago? Heheh, hopefully I'll call B & H this week

HKstrongside · November 29, 2009 9:21AM

<< 

<< It's all about the glass. Both Canon and Nikon are great brands to choose from and I don't think you will go wrong with either brand. Once you choose one, you will want to stick with it. Like several have said, with digital these days the bodies change every year. But the glass stays the same. Invest your money in professional lenses and then save a few bucks on the body, because chances are you will be upgrading it soon.
I shot with the same film body for 3 years, then digital came along and I have been through 3 bodies in 5 years. One thing that I have been able to carry through are my lenses. I am a Canon man. I have invested almost $5000 in L glass. I have been able to use them with all my digital bodies. Choose the camera that feels best to you and then stick with that brand.
I have to disagree with those that recommend aftermarket lenses like Sigma and Tamron. Always match your lens brand to your body brand and you will never go wrong. Spend the extra money for the better lens, and save a few on the body. >>

I'm sorry but your post is utter BS.

PM me if you would like to talk about it.

Ray >>

I don't see how sharing my opinions based on my experience can be "utter bs" but I will entertain your opinion. Maybe you know something about my experience that I don't, I am open minded. PM sent...

Bochiman · November 29, 2009 10:19AM

<< I continue to procrastinate on this issue but I THINK I'm going to buy a Nikon outfit and Sigma macro. When? Well I was supposed to do this over a month ago. Well, maybe 2 months ago. Would you believe 3 months ago? Heheh, hopefully I'll call B & H this week

>>

If you are going to spend a chunk of change like that, I recommend comparing adorama and B&H. Likely the prices will be almost the same, but you can also check out their shipping and any bing.com/cashback.

I got extremely lucky a few months back and someone on another forum (K6AZ who used to post here) mentioned that adorama was having 10-15% or something like that at adorama for cashback. I did it, got my items within a week or so (free shipping I think it was) and got my cashback 2 months later (it was ~$146, so it was definitely worth it

)

Originally, I bought my camera from B&H. Also shipped to me within a week or so. Both places are extremely easy to work with and I think both have cashback (varies).

You won't be disappointed with either one.

Bruceswar · November 29, 2009 11:32AM

Canon has better glass hands down. Canon all the way.

JungleFever · November 29, 2009 12:03PM

LostSisler · November 29, 2009 12:47PM

Go to Best Buy and play with a Canon G11, it's not an SLR but you won't want to put it down once you take some shots of your pocket change...

23Pairer · November 29, 2009 1:01PM

Nikon has the edge because of their lenses. I am using a 25 year old lens on my D300. You can't go wrong with Nikon glass.

DieClash · November 29, 2009 1:05PM

<< ...All the models you are comparing are considered entry level DSLR's and as everyone has said, the glass matters. BUT, if you are not a pro, you may not notice the difference in the subtle color variations caused by lens abberation, not the camera... >>

Not a pro and definitely not interested in the Pro prices either

BTW, Thanks for the Costco Link JungleFever.

I would say that although all 4 models I am considering are "entry-level", the Nikon D90 and the Canon XT1i 500D are just a step above, and the HD video would be the only reason for me to spend a few hundred more.

So far, this it what I have taken away from this thread:

1. Body's are less important than the glass, get a less expensive body and spend the difference on the lens(es)
2. For coin imaging you need a macro lens (not cheap glass BTW!)
3. You need to handle the body to "feel" how it fits in your hands. Go to Best Buy, Wal-Mart, Sam's or other retail outlets to "feel" the body before you buy.
4. Buy online for the best deals: B&H Photo (I've bought from them before); Costco online, Adorama, Amazon, Newegg, eBay, etc.
5. If you get the body that feels best in-hand, you cannot go wrong with the camera's listed in the OP.
6. Nikon cameras are compatible with every Nikon lens (more lens choices vis-á-vis Canon).
7. Definitely research and review what the online experts have to say (Steve's, dpreview, Cnet, pcmag, etc.)
8. Consider used equipment for better deals (esp. lenses) - see fredmiranda.com

Any other tidbits of wisdom re: dSLR purchase selection that I have missed?

Edited: didn't realize the combination of ":" + "D" rendered the happy face

in my "re

SLR" sentence.

DieClash · November 29, 2009 1:13PM

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Canon vs. Nikon...help me choose my 1st dSLR! UPDATED

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Canon vs. Nikon...help me choose my 1st dSLR! **UPDATED**

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Canon vs. Nikon...help me choose my 1st dSLR! UPDATED