Nikon D40 - Expert Reviews

Review summary: At $599, the Nikon D40 is a great value, and a great tool for photographers who want to grow. The included help system and aperture displays are fantastic learning tools.

Pros: Affordable, impressive image quality; small; light; bright, easy-to-see 2.5-inch LCD; full-featured; comfortable; solid build with rubberized grip; handy information display; built-in help system.

Cons: No top-mounted status display; lower pixel count than most pro-level DSLRs; no depth of field preview.

Verdict: The D40 kit includes the small, lightweight camera and a separate 18-55mm lens (the camera is not available in a body-only configuration). Even at this low price, the build quality of the D40 is excellent. The rubberized grip and pebbled finish make it fe

Review summary: In a few words, Nikon D40 is the lightest, most compact Nikon digital SLR ever, featuring intuitive controls and an ergonomically designed operation that even first-time SLR users can enjoy. Advanced 3-area AF system and the refined algorithms inherited f

Review summary: The D40 is Nikon's new entry-level digital SLR. It packs a similar 6mp sensor to that used in the outgoing D50 and D70s.

Pros: Well-made, compact body with bright viewfinder. High picture quality with low noise.

Cons: No built-in sensor cleaning or image-stabilization system. Autofocus with AF-S or AF-I lenses only.

Verdict: With the exception of the mediocre AF system and quirky data-panel there's still a great deal to like. We can't fault the build or the image quality, but the D40 will more readily appeal to those trading up from a digital compact than owners of older digi

Review summary: Review: Nikon D40 digital cameraEntry-level SLR with minimal complexity but plenty of creative control

Pros: Usability; price; size; image quality

Cons: No autofocus motor in camera body; no depth of field preview; 6megapixels limits print size and cropping potential

Verdict: The D40 costs around £50 less than the D50 and we feel it's a better camera, despite the lack of internal focus motor and top-mounted status panel. It's smaller, lighter, has a bigger LCD screen and a host of new features

Review summary: Baby digital SLR for beginners delivers a grown-up performance

Pros: A lot of camera for not a great deal of money, A lot of camera for not a great deal of money, Helpful on-screen guides and user friendly, Lens included in the kit

Cons: Some pixel fringing visible when images examined in detail, Some pixel fringing visible when images examined in detail, Kit lens could do with being upgraded when you can afford it, Memory card costs extra

Verdict: Though not quite matching performance from professional SLRs, the Nikon D40 produces images that are a cut above the best compacts and deserves to do well against closest rival the 400D from Canon. For those who want better-looking pictures without taking