Nikon D40 opinions please

[ozimax]

Hello there folks in Nikon-land:

I have the opportunity to purchase a Nikon D40 (as brand new) for about $200, from a relative, otherwise it goes on flea-bay.

Is this a good buy for an oldish camera, with kit lens? I'm thinking of using it as a knock around camera, something to throw in the car for general use etc.

Any opinions on this camera appreciated!

With thanks.

Ozi

[Steffen]

I think it's a good deal. The D40 is a nifty little camera, it beats its immediate successors D40s and D60 IMO. It feels very solidly made yet is small and lightweight, has better low-light abilities than the two others above and also a hybrid shutter for a flash sync speed of 1/500s.

Like its brethren, it needs CPU lenses for metering and AF will only work with AF-S and AF-I lenses. Another drawback is that the built-in flash cannot be used as wireless commander.

Cheers
Steffen.

[aim54x]

That is a good price for a very good camera. I have owned its direct successors the D40X (not D40S - there never was a D40S) and D60 (still own it, although it may pass on to a better land thanks to its swim back in Feburary) and Katrina has been using a D40 for awhile. They are a nice little camera that handles most situations nicely. I am not sure I agree with the comment that it betters its successors, but Ken seems to agree! I would argue that my D60 (its been a long time since I have used a D40X) is at least equal if not better in terms of high ISO performance, and there is also the mega useful "rangefinder mode" in the D60.

Also note that it will take any Nikon F-mount lens...even Pre-Ai...which can be an awesome thing if your not reliant on a light meter and AF. As for commander flash, it would have been nice to have, but it was/is an entry level camera. It is however, not a good candidate for IR conversion as it does not allow for CWB to be set after such surgery.

[Steffen]

the D40X (not D40S - there never was a D40S)

You're correct of course, my Sony.

EDIT: LOL at the creative substitution

Cheers
Steffen.

[aim54x]

my Sony.

EDIT: LOL at the creative substitution

Now that someone has taken a liking to Sony, I wonder if the substitution will change...

[ozimax]

Thanks Steffen & Cameron for the feedback. I think I will make a little investment here. I am heading down to Floriade this weekend (if it's still on?) and will give the D40 & EPL1 some workouts.