Digital Camera Buying Advice Needed!

[carbonmotion]

I'm trying to advise a friend (student) who's trying to decide between a Nikon D80 body ($275) and a Nikon D200 body ($350). Given both bodies are in pretty good shape and have similar shutter click counts, can any of you photographers here advise this kid which is the better bet?

 

[matbook101]

Nikon P510, nuff' said.

 

[carbonmotion]

Nikon P510, nuff' said.

Between the two choices mentioned above

 

[El Cabong]

Here's a pretty good summary of the key differences between the two: http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d80/vs-d200.htm (scroll down to the "Important Differences" table)

The D200 is the better camera, and worth the extra $75, imo. They share the same sensor, but the D200 has faster continuous shooting, weather sealing, faster max. shutter and flash sync speeds, and better external controls. The D80 is lighter and has better battery life, though I haven't had issues with batteries when I've shot for a full day with the D200 in the past. Also, some of the earlier D80 models produced had amp noise issues at high ISOs.

 

[ourabmen]

I would spend the extra $75 on the D200. It was my first body, and I loved the image files below iso 800. The after you have shot with a fully functional body and the myriad controls and programable functions you will be hard pressed to go back to a neutered consumer body. Ken Rockwell is a controversial figure in Nikon Land. I would suggest the checking out these websites: nikon cafe and fred miranda. Great sites for for good information and reviews on gear and fred miranda has a wicked good buy and sell forum ( I have purchased and sold a lot of gear there). Best of luck.

ourabmen

 

[upbraid]

d200. it was my starter camera, and great build quality, ability to use older lenses (AF in camera, not lens). however CCD sensor uses up battery faster, and the iso is good up to about 800. at iso 200 though, its at least as good as current high end setups.

 

[Vudoo]

I started with the D70 and then moved to the D200. I would recommend the D200 over the D80.

 

[Bear]

I'd also volt the D200. Then again I've had one for a tad over 6 years.

 

[ChrisA]

I'm trying to advise a friend (student) who's trying to decide between a Nikon D80 body ($275) and a Nikon D200 body ($350). Given both bodies are in pretty good shape and have similar shutter click counts, can any of you photographers here advise this kid which is the better bet?

I'd go with the d200. The it's a pro level camera that is built like a tank and will last a lifetime. It can use all the old Nikon lenses too, going back 50 years.

 

[edge540]

I also give my vote for the D200 over the D80. The build quality alone is worth it. Definitely feels like a better build camera in my mind.