Canon 40D vs. Nikon D300

The Canon 40D and Nikon D300 are pro-sumer models of DSLR cameras that meet people’s budgets with a much higher performance. The most significant difference between the two, and one of the first factors that people will notice, is the sensor resolution. The 40D is equipped with a 10 megapixel sensor, while the D300 has a 12 megapixel sensor. Most people no longer notice the 2 megapixel difference at these levels, but the D300 can still produce larger images while retaining the same level of detail.

Both the 40D and the D300 have a 3 inch LCD screen that can be used as a substitute for the viewfinder, and for previewing the images taken. Although they both perform admirably, the .92 megapixel resolution of the D300 is able to show much finer details compared to the .23 megapixel display on the 40D.

Continuous shooting speed is important for people who shoot moving objects. In this area, the 40D has an almost negligible advantage over the stock D300, as it shoots at 6.5 fps; compared to the D300 that can only shoot 6 fps. However, when used with an optional battery pack, the D300 can shoot at a significant 8 fps, leaving the 40D in the dust. The downside to this is the high cost of the optional battery pack, although most users who need very fast continuous shooting really have no choice in the matter.

All in all, the D300 is considerably superior to the 40D, as it has better parts along with features that you will not find in the 40D. This includes active D-lighting, a very advanced scene recognition system, and a lot of post processing and editing options available to the user. But when you factor in the price of each unit, the choice is not so well defined, as the D300 is considerably pricier compared to the 40D. The choice really relies more on your budget, and what you are willing to pay for a DSLR camera.

Summary:

The 40D has a lower 10 megapixel sensor compared to the 12 megapixel sensor of the D300.

The 40D has a lower resolution LCD display compared to the D300.

The 40D has a slower continuous shooting speed compared to the D300 that has the optional battery pack.

The D300 packs a lot more features that you will not find with the 40D.

The D300 costs more compared to the 40D.

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