Canon XTi vs. Nikon D40x vs. Nikon D80

[Jon770]

Hi - was looking for some help in deciding on a new D-SLR. I posted the same thing on my local group's forum, but was thinking I might get more responses on an all-photography forum.

I have my first baby on the way and decided that I wanted something better than my current point and shoot. I primarily want to take pics of the family, but will also use it for tank shots, etc... I’ve come to the realization that the best ‘entry-level’ D-SLR for the money is either the Canon XTi or the Nikon D40x. Then there is always the ‘mid-level’ Nikon D80, which alot of people seem to love. As a true novice with SLR photography, I feel comfortable getting an entry level camera, but at the same time I don’t want to kick myself a couple years down the road for not spending the extra couple bucks to get the D80. While money is definitely a factor in my decision and I would prefer to save the $400, if it will make THAT big a difference, then I will pay the extra $$$ for the D80.

So….here are my options of cameras/kits to get. Which one do you think I should go with, and why?


OPTION 1: $749 – Nikon D40x with Two-Lens Bonus Outfit (18-55 & 55-200)
Main accessories besides camera body:
Nikon AF-S DX ZOOM-NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED
AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED
Nikon bag and Nikon instructional DVDs

OPTION 2: $749 – Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi 2 lens Zoom Kit (18-55 & 75-300)
Main accessories besides camera body:
EF-S 18-55mm II
EF-S 75-300mm III

OPTION 3: $1,043 – Nikon D80 Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-135mm Lens
Main accessories besides camera body:
18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor lens

OPTION 4: $1,099 – Nikon D80 Digital SLR Two-Lens Bonus Outfit (18-55 & 55-200)
Main accessories besides camera body:
18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S DX Lens
AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED
Nikon bag and Nikon instructional DVDs

OPTION 5: $1,149 – Nikon D80 Digital SLR Two-Lens Bonus Outfit (18-55 & VR 55-200)
Main accessories besides camera body:
18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S DX Lens
Nikon 55-200 mm F/4 5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor Lens w/ Vibration Reduction
Nikon bag and Nikon instructional DVDs