Nikon D80 v Canon Rebel XTi

[Maule]

Please don't think I am trying to "start" something. I'm only asking. I was just getting ready to buy a D80 for $999.00 when I saw the XTi. i can buy an XTi for $719.00. (Both body only). What are the pros and cons to purchasing each of these cameras.

P.S. I dont own any camera equipment atm that should influence a purchase of Nikon or Canon either way.

 

[alcina]

You'll need to look for reviews as few have these cameras in hand as of yet.

www.dpreview.com is a good starting place

Frankly and simply - you can't go wrong with either camera.

 

[JackConnick]

Boy, this is a question a lot of people will be asking themselves. I too have been looking at both cameras and they have a lot to offer. Each has some advantages. But me too, these are my thoughts, I'm not trying to start anything either.

The Canon xTi is smaller, lighter by 1/2 pound, has the digic sensor that many people like, has 3 programable buttons, that I think will be very useful underwater, a very bright and easy to read screen.

The Nikon D80 has a huge bright viewfinder and has most of the practical features of the advanced D200. Probably a better build quality. It is heavier and larger, maybe a bit large for my hands. It has a cool wireless strobe controller (not for UW use!), one programable button, programable menus, very easy to view review feature and more. Some have said the buttons on it are scattered, and I would tend to agree. Probably will be better supported by more housing manufacturers, but both will be popular.

Looking around, while there are many lenses for both, there are many more choices for the Nikon, and the 3rd party ones tend to be a bit cheaper in that mount, IMHO.

You need to go into a quality camera store and ask some questions and play with both. Go home, think about it, and go back again and play some more. Then buy from that source, even if it's a few bucks more, as you will have lots of questions and need the support. don't rip off their time explaining the cameras and helping you and then go buy mail-order, that's not fair.

It's a very important decision, as it's just the beginning of your system, and you will be spending much more on lenses (research them too), housings, ports and more.

Jack

 

[Maule]

You need to go into a quality camera store and ask some questions and play with both. Go home, think about it, and go back again and play some more. Then buy from that source, even if it's a few bucks more, as you will have lots of questions and need the support. don't rip off their time explaining the cameras and helping you and then go buy mail-order, that's not fair.

It's a very important decision, as it's just the beginning of your system, and you will be spending much more on lenses (research them too), housings, ports and more.

Jack

So, I went to the local camera shop that happens to have both Nikon and Canon. Told the gentleman that I was new to photography and had an interest in these 2 cameras and wanted his take on them. His response was, " they are both great cameras, which do you want?" err, to walk out of the store, which is what I did.
I probably would have purchased one of the cameras from the store if he had showed the slightest interest in helping me. I know that local stores struggle with the internet sales on electronics, and other things too, but sometimes the local stores just shoot themselves in the foot.

 

[victor]

I must admit to being in a similar quandry. Historically I was a Nikon person however none of my gear will be transferable.

I think that the killer decision maker will be the autofocus.

Underwater we need the autofocus to work quickly and in low light conditions.

There are great lenses for both cameras.
There might be more housing for the Nikon but I doubt that will make a difference.
My Nikons were very reliable, but so are the Cannon's that my pro photographer has.
The 3 user programable buttons sound very interesting, but I am sure I could manage with 1.

Well I will wait and see some more reviews, I dont think I will be getting it before Xmas, and the housing will be a bit after that.

 

[JackConnick]

So, I went to the local camera shop that happens to have both Nikon and Canon. Told the gentleman that I was new to photography and had an interest in these 2 cameras and wanted his take on them. His response was, " they are both great cameras, which do you want?" err, to walk out of the store, which is what I did.
I probably would have purchased one of the cameras from the store if he had showed the slightest interest in helping me. I know that local stores struggle with the internet sales on electronics, and other things too, but sometimes the local stores just shoot themselves in the foot.

Wow. Don't blame you a bit. Find another store, not one of the mall chains. I have a pro store near me that's great. Or call them up and ask for a manager and tell them your experience. That might be good for a laugh! :11doh:

Jack

 

[bandit_TX]

I second the "can't go wrong" club. Pick a system and go with it. I went Canon when the 20D released and kicked everything else in it's price range. Today, the playing field has leveled, at least temporarily. It's a moving target. Whatever you buy will be old in 9 months or so. Pick one and get in the game. They are both making new better cameras on at least an annual basis. They both have good housing and lense support. They both have about the same flash support for underwater.

 

[alo100]

Excuse me, don't want to change your original question, but it seems to me that Nikon 80D would be comparable to Canon 400D...
maybe?
Have you ever considered 400D?

 

[bhalah]

The Rebel XTi is the EOS 400D.

 

[pakman]

Maul, its a tough call... both cameras are pretty comparable. If you don't have any old lenses around then you're free to choose between two great cameras... That being said, as an owner of a Rebel XT (350D) and XTi (400D), I would say try to demo them in the shop and put a long lens on it (100mm or more) and see how comfortable it feels (if your shop allows you to rent one, even better). While the XTi might feel OK with a small/ light kit lens in the shop, the grip does feel awkward with a heavier/ longer lens and your right hand will get tired after a day of shooting with it. I use a 3rd party grip strap that screws into the bottom so it gives my pinky finger something to rest on. Another solution is to purchase the expensive Canon battery/ vertical grip. The D80 has a taller body and doesn't weight that much more than the Rebel XTi. Also pay attention to the viewfinder. You'll find the Nikon viewfinder is a bit nicer and that will help underwater...

whichever you choose, I'm sure you're gonna be happy... I expect to see posts from you shortly on lenses...

edit: I haven't checked lately and I don't know what your timeframe is but you might want to find out who is making what housing... Not sure if anyone has announced a Xti/400D housing yet. I know Sea & Sea should be coming out with a D80 housing before year end.