I've read all the relevant reviews and searched on the comparisons but what I want is the gut reaction purchase decision from you all. I know its the Canon forum so I expect some jaded answers but here's the real question..if you're an amateur hack like me and want a do it all camera that you aren't going to outgrow in 6 months, which do you buy, the D80 or for the same total outlay, the XTi and some upgraded glass (vs the EF 18-55 kit)?

From my point of view, they're just different flavors. Do you want to invest in the Nikon system or the Canon system? Which one revs your engines? I have been very, very happy with my XTi. But I am very intimate with the Canon system and it make sense for me to choose the XTi over the D80. However, plenty of people love the D80, too. Which one are you leaning toward? I'd say that's your correct decision.

Have you tried both in a store? That'll probably make or break the deal for you. Many people buy a camera that doesn't really feel right in their hands. There's no point in getting an advanced camera if it's uncomfortable to use. the XTi can feel a bit small and difficult to hold on to for some people, for others it's perfect.

I'm in the same boat. But If I'm going to spend an extra $200 for the D80, why not spend a little more and just get a Canon 30D?

I'm in the same boat. But If I'm going to spend an extra $200 for the D80, why not spend a little more and just get a Canon 30D?

Or, buy the XTi and use the difference between that and the 30D to invest in a higher quality lens. The XTi does more than most photographers here will ever fully use. The lens makes all the difference for the quality of the image.

FWIW, I like the light weight design of the Canons. Big and bulky just doesn't translate for me. Your opinion may vary!

I also like a light weight camera when possible, but not to the extent that I can't even hold the thing properly. That's how I feel when I use an XTi or XT. The XT was a tiny bit worse than the XTi in that regard, but unless you have small hands (I don't have particularly big ones honestly, and its still uncomfortable) you should really try both before deciding. When it comes down to it, the size and weight aren't too different (I doubt you'd notice between an XTi and D80 very much) but the shape and size of the grip are the important parts.

Or, buy the XTi and use the difference between that and the 30D to invest in a higher quality lens. The XTi does more than most photographers here will ever fully use. The lens makes all the difference for the quality of the image.

That's exactly what I did when the XTi came out last year. The money you save will come to good use. I bought a canon IS lens with the extra money instead of just going with the kit lens. Although it does feel alittle small in your hands, you can always get a battery grip. The body is small and light so adding a lense other than the kit might make it look and feel funky. The batter grip may also balance the weight/size out (between lense and body).

Here's what made the D80 my buy... spot metering. none of the rebels seem to have it. Of course you could just buy the xti and a dedicated spot meter (which is a handy tool anyways). Plus the D80 feels more rugged. But by all means just pick what you feel like buying.

I've been a Canon user since 1971 when I got my first F1. At that time I was working in a camera store and could have bought whatever I wanted at cost +5%. I chose the Canon because, at that time, the lenses and bodies cost less than the equivalent Nikon body, Today it is a toss up on price. I bought a Canon 300D and it felt way too light for me, especially with a tele lens. I installed the battery/grip and that makes it lots better although it still doesn't have the balance of the F1 especially with a motor drive. I prefer the larger size as my hands don't like the feel of smaller ones. As others said, either the Canon or Nikon is a good camera. You just have to try them both out to see how it feels to you. Most stores will let you use the camera to shoot somephotos in the store. At least that will get you the idea. You can also make the purchase conditional. Tell them you want to buy and try and if you don't like it bring it back and switch. Another choice is to rent one for a day or two and try, then rent the other. That should give you a good feel for both brands. Don't try to learn all the features in that time as that is not possible. Just go for the feel, the two brands will have about the same features. You can do some research on the makers web sites to find a list of features. Don't pay too much attention to reviews as those can vary depending on the reviewer. Also, the lab tests are meaningless in real life. Not many people are going to go around shooting lens charts.

Hope this helps
Michael :cool: