Canon XSi with 2 lens or Nikon D40?

[mpritc1019]

Amazon has the Canon XSi with the kit lens plus the 55-250mm lens for $746. They also have the Nikon D40 for $411 with the kit lens for $411. If you buy the Nikon 55-200mm lens it adds $224 to the D40 to compare apples to apples. Is the Canon worth $111 more than the D40 with approx the same lenses? I have been reading as much as I can about it but cannot make a decision. I am a novice to DSLR's but look forward to getting good pictures of my kids. Thanks for the help.

[couch21]

There are TONS of Canon XSi vs. Nikon D40 threads out there. Instead of posing your question here (both are great entry level cameras), you're best off digging around and reaching your own conclusions. The main reason is you're going to run into fans of both, and brand loyalty creates a deep divide.

Below are just an example of what's already out there with a quick Google search.
http://web500.us/which-one-to-buy-canon-xsi-canon-450d-or-nikon-d80-nikon-d40/
http://www.flickr.com/groups/d40slr/discuss/72157603920243415/
http://forums.macrumors.com/archive/index.php/t-613973.html

Also check out Imaging Resource (www.imaging-resource.com) and Digital Photography Review (www.dpreview.com), two of the best digital camera/DSLR review sites out there.

One piece of advice for you though - GLASS (lenses) is always more important than the BODY. When making an investment for a great DSLR, don't skimp on the glass.

[JustAnEngineer]

The Rebel XSi is a more capable camera with a wider selection of compatible lenses than the D40. Canon's auto-focus lenses are are also less expensive than comparable Nikon lenses available for the D40. Is the more capable camera and wider lens selection worth the significant extra cost for the camera body? That's up to you.

The kit with the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS and EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS lenses is a very good start. Add a $90 EF 50mm f/1.8 prime lens for some wide-aperture goodness, and you've still spent less than $850.

[mpritc1019]

Thanks!
I still can't decide though.

[couch21]

Have you gone to a store such as Best Buy and tried them both in your hands? The build quality and ergonomics between the two may be considered drastically different between Canon and Nikon.

Imagine which model you'd prefer lugging around, both for looks and for usability, and you'll most likely decide from there.

[girlluvs_deals]

Thanks!
I still can't decide though.

Not sure if you have decided on this ..

I would suggest getting a canon. Its more superior than a D40. And its easier to build your lens collection later. The lens on nikon are expensive and heard that not all lens can be mounted on D40.

I was in a similar situation a few months ago and after hours and days on the internet forums trying to figure out which is best, I went with the canon deal for 780 on amazon. Just last night I ordered the 50mm 1.8, and can't wait to get it :)

Other thing I want to mention is, since you mentioned that its mainly for the kids (which is the exact reason for my purchase), I am not sure how much you would use the 55-250 lens. I haven't taken it out of the box yet since I have a 5 month old/3.5 yrs old. Haven't been on a vacation or outdoors much. The only reason I got it was there was a deals and its cheaper to get it as a set. have been thinking on selling it, but never got to that. I will probably let it sit in my closet for a while until I am off for a vacation :)

Hope it helps a bit.

[techrox]

Even though I am a Nikon user and partial to Nikon gear, I would suggest you to get the Canon XSi in this case (it is superior to D40 and more lens choices).