450D or 40D for a returning Canon user

Hi,

I used to be a proud owner of both a 10D and 20D when they were the new models, however due to economic circumstances a few years ago (i.e. lost the job!) the toys had to go, had to get my priorities in order.

Been using a Panny superzoom for the last 2 years and have finally decided to get back into the DSLR market as I've decided that after this christmas's poor images it's time to get a proper camere again.

I was very happy with the performance of my 20D, but was wondering if the advances made in the ranges would still make the 40 a much better choice over the 450?
I'd be looking at getting a twin zoom kit to start off with, there's a few at warehouse-express with both 18-55 IS and 55-200 IS lenses but depending on whether it's a 40 or a 450 there's around £240 difference.

Gut instinct tells me to go for the 40D as it's not THAT much more, and I will eventually be moving back up to "L" series lenses when cash permits. and when the wife's not looking

On a second note, are warehouse express pretty much the cheapest around for either model kits in the UK? Been hunting the Boxing Day / January Sale sites but can;t find cheaper yet!

Cheers

Tony

I vote 40D.

40D

The main difference between the two is the size. You should go to Jessops or any camera shop where you can hold both.

Of course the 40D has some extra features over the 450 but the image quality is very similar between the two. The quality of lenses will determine the image quality more than the body.

Invest in the best lenses you can afford if you want the best from a DSLR.
You will update bodies but the lenses are a longer term investment (and choosing them is the hardest part of being a DSLR user )

Pilot Dane wrote in post #6949320
I vote 40D.

i just recently upgraded from an xti to a 40D and its like a night and day difference...the feel of the 40D is great...nice and sturdy...i like the rubber grip too...the 450D will feel a lot lighter and a lot of its internals are plastic...the 40D will have a better build and more metal parts and a metal body...

i recently bought an XSi and for the price difference i regret not getting the 40D. feels better, more flexible lens, some extra features.

tmurphy wrote in post #6948700
Hi,

I used to be a proud owner of both a 10D and 20D when they were the new models, however due to economic circumstances a few years ago (i.e. lost the job!) the toys had to go, had to get my priorities in order.

Been using a Panny superzoom for the last 2 years and have finally decided to get back into the DSLR market as I've decided that after this christmas's poor images it's time to get a proper camere again.

I was very happy with the performance of my 20D, but was wondering if the advances made in the ranges would still make the 40 a much better choice over the 450?
I'd be looking at getting a twin zoom kit to start off with, there's a few at warehouse-express with both 18-55 IS and 55-200 IS lenses but depending on whether it's a 40 or a 450 there's around £240 difference.

Gut instinct tells me to go for the 40D as it's not THAT much more, and I will eventually be moving back up to "L" series lenses when cash permits. and when the wife's not looking

On a second note, are warehouse express pretty much the cheapest around for either model kits in the UK? Been hunting the Boxing Day / January Sale sites but can;t find cheaper yet!

Cheers

Tony

I'm currently trying to buy a 40D too, and with relatives over in the UK they have strict orders to be on the lookout for prices! Mum went to check at Jessops the other day and she told me that they old her the 40D (Body Only) was £527. There is also £60 Canon Cashback on the 40D atm plus according to their site (the price is not 527 over there though but 567, so i hope Mum wasn't drunk when she went to check lol) they're giving away a free DSLR bag worth £50 if purchase is made before end of year.

I upgraded from Xt to 40D. The large bodies have a MUCH better viewfinder, and because I play with old manual lenses, the rear LCD magnified live view for focusing is very very useful. Also, if you have any accessories from your 10D/ 20D days they should fit the 40D

40D I find the rebel line to puny and requires a grip to make it feel right. The only time i'll ever recommend a rebel body if that person is complete beginner.

40D it is then.....now just have to find the deal of the year!!!

Tony

I have just been through the same predicament as you.
Everything suggested that I should go with the 40D due to the bigger grip( I have bigger than average hands) but as suggested on this forum they all say try the cameras before buying which I did and I found that the 450D was more comfortable to hold although it had a smaller grip. I purchased the 450D with 18-55 and 55-250 lenses from Warehouse express via a telephone call and they arrived the next day with free delivery.
The 40D does feel a lot more robust but did not quite feel right in my hands so you really need to hold each of the cameras.
I have just been playing with them since xmas but as soon as the weather improves I will be out there trying the camera for real.
Glad I made the purchase. All the best with your decision....

40D

40D, hands down.

40D

No mixed messages here, 40D by a mile.