Comparing Nikon and Canon DSLR Cameras. This document was created by Chris Glass on January 1, 2009. Referral link prices subject to change*


  Canon
Rebel XS
EOS 1000D
Nikon
D60
Canon
Rebel XSi
EOS 450D
Nikon
D90
Canon
50D
EOS
Nikon
D300
Nikon
D700
Canon
5D MarkII
EOS
  ENTRY LEVEL
These cameras will take fantastic photos and do you fine. Great if this is your first digital SLR. Be sure to get a prime lens in addition to a more versatile (kit) lens.
MID-LEVEL
Bigger LCD screens than the entry level, a bit more resolution. Preference might be toward what model feels better in the hand, or the desire to have video capability (Nikon D90).
SEMI-PRO
For the person who takes portrait or wedding photography, or needs a more durable machine (they're made with metal casings instead of plastic)
PRO
Serious machines with incredible capability (Sports and action in addition to portraits) that utilize a full frame to use every corner of your lens. The Canon 5D has HD video and marginally better resolution.
roll over $476
body + lens
$520
body + lens
$630
body + lens
$1100
body + lens
$1265
body + lens
$1650
body + lens
$2700
body + lens
$2699
body
Megapixels 10.5 10.2 12.2 12.3 15.5 12.3 12.1 22
Sensor Size 1.6x 1.5x 1.6x 1.5x 1.6x 1.5x FULL frame FULL frame
Resolution 3888 x 2592 3872 x 2592 4752 x 3168 4288 x 2848 4752 x 3168 4288 x 2848 4256 x 2832 5616 x 3744
LCD screen 2.5" 2.5" 3.0" 3.0" 3.0" 3.0" 3.0" 3.0"
ISO 100 ~ 1600 100 ~ 1600
(+3200)
100 ~ 1600 200 ~ 3200
(+100 ~ 6400)
100 ~ 3200
(6400, 12800)
200 ~ 3200
(+100 ~ 6400)
200 ~ 6400
(+100 ~ 25,600)
100 ~ 6400
(50, 25600)
Live-View Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes+ Yes++
Processor DIGIC III
12bit
EXPEED DIGIC III
14bit
EXPEED DIGIC 4
14bit
EXPEED EXPEED DIGIC 4
14bit
Sensor cleaning Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Focus points 7 3 9 11 9 51 51 9
Remote Optional
Infrared Built In
Optional
Infrared Built In
Optional
Infrared Built In
Optional
Infrared Built In
Optional Optional Optional Optional
Video -   - HD Video
5 min limit w/HD
Mono audio
24fps 720P
- - - HD Video +
Audio jack
30fps 1080p
Construction Metal Frame /
Plastic Body
  Metal Frame /
Plastic Body
Largely
Polycarbonate
Magnesium Alloy /
Stainless Steel
Largely
Magnesium Alloy
Magnesium Alloy,
Environmental seals
Magnesium Alloy /
Stainless Steel
Opinion VERY GOOD VERY GOOD GREAT VERY GREAT VERY GREAT Might as well get the D90 AWESOME SUPER AWESOME
 

 


Note: Every single one of these cameras has the ability to take excellent photos.

 


* Referral links are a way for me to earn money from the information researched and presented here (and save up for a camera!)
Even if you buy another item through the links above, I should recieve compensation.
It is greatly appreciated!