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Expert Recommendation
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Overview
For superlative low-light pictures, you cannot beat a DLSR. The sensor is much larger than any used in the digital point and shoot cameras available today, which results in much lower high ISO noise. Also the image quality of your high ISO shots, when compared to those taken by a point and shoot, will become readily apparent when you print anything larger than a 4x6 print. Combine a near-instantaneous focus speed and very affordable cost and you can see why a DSLR like the Nikon D40 is a great choice.
My Best In Class Pick
Nikon D40 (with 18-55mm Lens)
To put it simply, DSLRs are incredible low-light performers, especially when compared to point and shoot cameras. The larger sensors and better lenses make it so. Comparing DSLRs is often very subjective, and while I do advise everyone to go to the camera store and pick up each camera they are considering to test the feel, I will say the Nikon D40 offers some of the best low-light performance out there. It also offers wider exposure compensation, allowing you to quickly capture a greater range of shots than the Canon. That it is more than two hundred dollars less expensive than the Canon just seals the deal.
Where to buy
Nikon D40 (with 18-55mm Lens)
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Best Price:
$429
See It »
- $429 - $565 Compare Prices »
Specifications
- Zoom: 3.0x
- Image Stabilization: No
- Resolution: 6.1MP
- Max ISO: 3200
- Easy to Use: No
- Highly Recommended at DPReview.com
- Dave's Pick at Imaging-Resource.com
- Rated Very Good by CNET.com
Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi (with 18-55mm Lens)
This DSLR from Canon is everything you expect from a DSLR. Fast, near instant focus speeds, very good performance in low light and the full range of control which will satisfy most anyone. The two drawbacks when compared to the Nikon D40 are not quite as good low-light performance and a significant increase in price. While the Digital Rebel XT (one model older) is closer to the Nikon in price, the newer DSLRs have much more to offer the contemporary shopper.
Where to buy
Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi (with 18-55mm Lens)
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Best Price:
$799
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- $799 - $1799 Compare Prices »
Specifications
- Zoom: 3.0x
- Image Stabilization: No
- Resolution: 10.1MP
- Max ISO: 1600
- Easy to Use: No
- Highly Recommended at DPReview.com
- Dave's Pick at Imaging-Resource.com
- Rated Very Good by CNET.com
How It Works
You tell us your budget, intended uses, and desired features. We show you personalized recommendations from unbiased experts to quickly identify the best digital camera for you.
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How to Pick Digital Cameras
- For Travel Photos
- For Photos of Children or Pets
- For Action or Sports Photos
- For Photos in Low Light
