Purchase Questions....D40x +2 lens vs. D80 + 1 lens

Craddosk · Feb 17, 2008

Hi,

Seems that B&H decided to stop carrying a kit I was looking at,
D40x +18-55 and a 55-200 VR lens for 709.95.
Have contacted them, and unless I can get a reinstatement of it for tomorrow (hoping), I was looking at other possibilities...

Normally, the above kit is 839.90.

I was looking around at other Nikon, and found the D80 + 18-55 mm lens for 879.95.

Now, while megapixel count is 10.2 for both cameras, the D80 has a focusing motor in the camera.

Would it be worth it to buy the D80 over the D40x for $40 more, and then purchase the 55-200 VR at a later time (or a different telephoto lens), or save the $40 and purchase the D40x with 18-55 and 55-200 VR lenses?

Thoughts, opinions? How much better is the D80 over the D40x?
Thanks.

BuZzZeRkEr · Feb 17, 2008

I'm sure most people will say D80 all the way. My vote is for the D80, but you'll outgrow that lens pretty quick. Great price....on the D80! Is that on B&H?

Craddosk · Feb 17, 2008

Yes that is on B&H...I was thinking it was a great price, especially when ordering it in Canada.

BuZzZeRkEr · Feb 17, 2008

Good! you wern't very specific when it cam to the vendor for the D80. When I got my D40 I really wanted the D80, but couldn't find the D80 body only at that price! Now it's under 900 and comes with a lens? GET IT!

BuZzZeRkEr · Feb 17, 2008

Good! you wern't very specific when it cam to the vendor for the D80. When I got my D40 I really wanted the D80, but couldn't find the D80 body only at that price! Now it's under 900 and comes with a lens? GET IT!

Craddosk · Feb 17, 2008

Or, just as an afterthought, should I wait until I can purchase a D60 (probably with a 18-55 VR (on B&H right now for $750)

Edit: Some research seems to indicate that the D60 is being released for purchase end of Feb. 2008

sabbath999 · Feb 18, 2008

I would buy the D80 over the D40X in all circumstances.

RKW3 · Feb 18, 2008

Jump on that D80 deal.

elemental · Feb 18, 2008

sabbath999 said:
I would buy the D80 over the D40X in all circumstances.

Agreed.

TamiyaGuy · Feb 18, 2008

Well, the D80 has a more rugged, hard-as-nails feel to it. The D40x still has that, and is still tough, but is smaller.

Basically, either will do. If you really need that extra lens, then by all means, get the D40x. You won't regret it. But if you want fantastic quality prints (compared to... erm... very slightly less fantastic?), then you should go for the D80.

And, of course, get a feel for both of them. If you think the D80 is too bulky for you, then get the D40x. Likewise, if the 'x is too small for you, then get the '80.

I, personally, wouldn't get the D60 until waaaay after it comes out, as DSLR prices drop like stones. You might even get some more off the D40x or the D80 when it comes out...

CRman · Feb 18, 2008

D80. Got it, love it! Hands down..... D80!!!!!!!!!! :thumbup:

NM Rich · Feb 18, 2008

Craddosk said:
Hi,

Seems that B&H decided to stop carrying a kit I was looking at,
D40x +18-55 and a 55-200 VR lens for 709.95.
Have contacted them, and unless I can get a reinstatement of it for tomorrow (hoping), I was looking at other possibilities...

Normally, the above kit is 839.90.

I was looking around at other Nikon, and found the D80 + 18-55 mm lens for 879.95.

Now, while megapixel count is 10.2 for both cameras, the D80 has a focusing motor in the camera.

Would it be worth it to buy the D80 over the D40x for $40 more, and then purchase the 55-200 VR at a later time (or a different telephoto lens), or save the $40 and purchase the D40x with 18-55 and 55-200 VR lenses?

Thoughts, opinions? How much better is the D80 over the D40x?
Thanks.

After having my D40x for several weeks now, I wish I had more flexibility with autofocus lenses. I think the extra $40 would be worth it to open up your choice for lenses. I do love my camera though, just wish I had investigated more thoroughly...