Canon 500D/T1i or Nikon D90?

[myabn]

Which should I get?

 

[tyler_h]

Go to a local camera store and have a play around with both. See which you find more comfortable to hold and go from there.

One thing to consider is that you are buying into a system so you should consider the differences:
One that comes to mind is video capabilities.
The other is the lenses line up. Both systems have a wide range of lenses but there are some that each lens has that the other brand doesn't.

 

[chaosrealm93]

i put ergonomics first. no point in buying something you cant even hold

 

[Kerbouchard]

I would also say go with what feels better in your hand, but in terms of features and performance, the D90 blows the T1i out of the water. Not really fair to compare the two. A closer comparison would be the T1i and the D5000. The D90 is a step up.

Oh, and if you are seeing a D90 for the same price as the T1i, you might have found a great deal or you may have found one that is too good to be true. Make sure it is from a credible source.

 

[myabn]

Well I think I can get the T1i for around $550 with a 18-55 lens off eBay. But I have a friend who's willing to sell me his D90 with a 18-55 lens for $600. Is it worth it?

 

[Kerbouchard]

Well I think I can get the T1i for around $550 with a 18-55 lens off eBay. But I have a friend who's willing to sell me his D90 with a 18-55 lens for $600. Is it worth it?

If the D90 is in good condition then, yes, I would jump on it. Sounds like a great deal.