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- Pentax K10D
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- Canon EOS 400D
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- Nikon D40
- Nikon D40x
- Nikon D200 (vs. Sigma SD14)
Nikon D40x
Nikon D40x Vs Canon EOS 400D. It's been the closest of challenges the whole way, with several similarities between the two models making it hard to separate the pair. But there are some noticeable differences. The Nikon feels slightly better made and the LCD monitor is a real treat. On the other hand, the Canon is slightly quicker in operation and in terms of specification, boasts some features not found on the Nikon that would appeal to enthusiasts. In terms of image quality, colours from the Nikon are more vivid, although it's easy to tweak the Canon’s to give a punchier result. In other areas of image quality, there isn't really anything to separate the two. Which brings us to the final judging criteria – value for money. Having been around a while, the Canon has the price advantage (it can be found for under £500), so for now, it offers better value than the Nikon, which is sure to also see a price drop in the coming months. It's the tightest of decisions, but the Canon EOS 400D retains its crown.
Features 21/25
Performance 23/25
Value for money 22/25
Final Score 88/100
Handling & ease of use
The 10.2-megapixel Nikon D40x looks and handles much like its older six-megapixel sibling, the D40. It’s very compact and lightweight – in fact at the time of writing it's the world's lightest 10.2-megapixel SLR with an APS-C-sized sensor. Despite its small size and plastic outer shell, the D40x doesn't feel flimsy but instead offers a very solid and comfortable hold. The handgrip is quite pronounced considering the body's small size and single-handed operation is possible. The viewfinder is typical for the price range; it's quite small but bright and clear, with a decent level of exposure information displayed along its base. The D40x's control layout is extremely neat – the main exposure mode dial dominates the top plate while the number of control buttons is kept to a minimum. Ease of use is further improved by the innovative LCD monitor, first seen on the D40 (more on this over the page). SCORE 22/25
Features
The heart of the D40x is a 10.2-megapixel DX (APS-C-sized) sensor delivering images with a maximum resolution of 3872x2592 pixels – good enough for A3+ prints. This is its main difference to the D40, along with a faster frame rate (3 frames-per-second) and a wider ISO range (100-1600). Its exposure system is comprehensive, with a full range of modes (including several scene-based programs) to suit the novice or enthusiast, backed up by Nikon’s brilliant 3D Color Matrix II multi-zone metering pattern, as well as spot and centre-weighted. The AF system is more rudimentary, using only three AF points laid out across the centre of the frame. Another strong area is the flash system – the integral flash offers a full range of modes, including rear-curtain sync, and Nikon’s Speedlight range offers an extensive range of options. Start navigating the Nikon’s menu system and it’s clear that it boasts a real depth of features. These range from those aimed at improving images, such as D-Lighting, which improves underexposed images, to ‘digital filters’ that allows images to be converted to monochrome, sepia etc. Where the D40x is very different from its rivals is with the innovative displays of its 2.5in LCD monitor, which gives it a level of user-friendliness that exceeds all other SLRs (apart from the D40, of course). Much like the majority of SLRs at this price point, the D40x offers a range of features to appeal to the vast cross-section of photographers from beginner to enthusiast, in a light weight and small package. Notable omissions though, are the lack of a depth-of-field preview and no sensor cleaning system. SCORE 21/25
Performance
As you’d expect, the Nikon is a very slick performer. Switch it on and it’s ready to shoot almost immediately. Write times are good too, with just over a second for JPEGs and closer to three for Raw files. It’s quiet in general operation too, with the AF-S 18-55mm zoom focusing quietly (but not as quickly as the Canon). The autofocus is responsive in most lighting, with the AF assist beam doing its job in very low light levels. The images show a high level of detail and colours are more vivid than those from the Canon. At high ISO ratings (800-1600) noise becomes an issue, but it’s not too prominent as to ruin an image. The Matrix metering delivers as you’d expect it to, with only strongly backlit subjects posing a real problem. The integral flash pumps out excellent exposures too, whether for fill-in or as the main source of lighting. While the AF system isn’t as quick as the Canon’s, it’s multi-zone metering has the edge over its rival. The D40x proves itself to be a very competent performer delivering excellent results. SCORE 23/25
IN THE BOX
D40x body & cap; 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II lens with front and rear caps; strap; eyepiece cap; rubber eyecup; USB cable; li-ion battery (EN-EL9) and charger (MH-23); mains lead; Picture Project CD; Quick Start Guide; instruction manual.
Lenses
As with the D40, the lens mount lacks any mechanical linkages, so autofocus is only possible with AF-S and AF-I lenses. With older series, only manual focus is possible
Media
The Nikon D40x uses SD cards and is also compatible with higher capacity SDHC cards. The current highest capacity is 8Gb (SDHC)