Recommended Posts

I have a Nikon D40... I really enjoy using it when I can and for the money it's a great starter camera for anyone. The menus are easy to use; it's very versatile, it's light, its small and just all around fun to use. The only thing I have found with it is the limitation of lenses available at reasonable prices. I currently own the standard 18-55mm & Nikon AF 50mm. Problem is that the D40 does not have a built in motor so can only Auto-Focus on lenses with the motor built in (AF-S). I don't want to spend nearly £500 for the 50mm AF-S as that's totally out of my price range.

I am very much looking at going with Canon because of one of the main points that the motor is built into the body rather than lenses. This gives me great freedom for choice of lenses I presume. I feel very limited with my D40 and with the lenses I've got and the shots I would like to take I haven't got much choice really. I'm looking to sell my current setup and upgrade to something above the D40.

I am really just looking for another entry-level DSLR that gives me much more choice. If it's a Nikon it will need to be AF-S though. I would like to have HD Video recording, just as an option really but if that's out of my price range then that's cool. Please give me some ideas people just need something else to have a think about.

My budget = £400-600.

Thanks all!

Link to comment
https://www.neowin.net/forum/topic/896302-time-to-upgrade-from-d40/
Share on other sites

If I remember correctly... the Canon does NOT have built in motors. That was why Nikon got rid of it in the D40, to match the size of the canon rebels, I think. (somebody correct/verify this for me?)

But don't expect too big of an upgrade going from a 400 pound entry level camera to a 2 year new 400 pound entry level.

I have a Nikon D40... I really enjoy using it when I can and for the money it's a great starter camera for anyone. The menus are easy to use; it's very versatile, it's light, its small and just all around fun to use. The only thing I have found with it is the limitation of lenses available at reasonable prices. I currently own the standard 18-55mm & Nikon AF 50mm. Problem is that the D40 does not have a built in motor so can only Auto-Focus on lenses with the motor built in (AF-S). I don't want to spend nearly ?500 for the 50mm AF-S as that's totally out of my price range.

I am very much looking at going with Canon because of one of the main points that the motor is built into the body rather than lenses. This gives me great freedom for choice of lenses I presume. I feel very limited with my D40 and with the lenses I've got and the shots I would like to take I haven't got much choice really. I'm looking to sell my current setup and upgrade to something above the D40.

I am really just looking for another entry-level DSLR that gives me much more choice. If it's a Nikon it will need to be AF-S though. I would like to have HD Video recording, just as an option really but if that's out of my price range then that's cool. Please give me some ideas people just need something else to have a think about.

My budget = ?400-600.

Thanks all!

I thought THe more expensive nikon cameras have built in motors. The nikon d40 doesnt have a built in motor to save money.

Hmmm maybe Im confused.. Its not so much about upgrade really its choice. The d40 has such limited choice of lenses for good prices that its a hard time searching for ones that are compatible.

I can easily get a D90 body for ?500.. is that not much of a difference ?

HUGE difference. The D90 shares the same sensor as the nikon D300s, a pro camera. They're not even comparable.

So exactly what "choice" of lenses are you looking for, anyway? You complained about the 50mm f1.4 being too expensive, but what about the 35mm f1.8? It's about $190.

A D90 body would be a better choice than another entry-level camera. AFAIK Nikon and Canon do not have built in motors in all of their range, Sony and Pentax do, and I'm not sure about Olympus.

The D40/60/3000/5000 are the only nikon cameras withOUT a built in motor. D70 80 90 100 200 300 700 1 2 3 etc all have built in motors.

But again, exactly what lenses are you looking for? AF-S only nikon cameras have been around for 4 years now, and the lens range is quite good for Nikon brand lenses and 3rd party lenses.

Im looking ideally for a wide angle lenses primarily for Landscape shots. The 50mm is of course of out the question, the 18-55mm can do an ok job but really more suited for general use. I would like to totally ditch using the 18-55mm. Im into my long exposure and night time shots.

Maybe I am just looking at things the wrong way, I just thought seeing as the D40 is the lowest entry level nikon that it would be majorly limited.

The D40/60/3000/5000 are the only nikon cameras withOUT a built in motor. D70 80 90 100 200 300 700 1 2 3 etc all have built in motors.

OK, I think what I said was ambiguous, I meant to say that Nikon and Canon have some cameras that do not have motors and others that do "Not all of their range has built-in motors" would have been more adequate, while Sony and Pentax have built-in motors in all of their cameras.

a higher quality lens like a 17-55 f2.8?

Are you talking about the Tamron or Sigma 17-50 f/2.8? Or is there a Nikon brand 17-55 f/2.8?

I've been seriously considering replacing my Sony 18-70 f/3.5-5.6 kit lens with the Tamron 17-50 f/2.8

I'm talking about either the tamron 17-50 f2.8 or nikon 17-55 f2.8. I own the tamron and it's pretty good. They have a new VC (vibration compensation) version that i hear is awesome for about $600. The nikon version is ~$1500.

OK, I think what I said was ambiguous, I meant to say that Nikon and Canon have some cameras that do not have motors and others that do "Not all of their range has built-in motors" would have been more adequate, while Sony and Pentax have built-in motors in all of their cameras.

ah, ok.

Well I done some research like I should of in the start and found this post on DPreview forums.

Crossposting this from an old thread in the D40/D80 forum: Just to show that the lens choices for the D40/D40x are not as limited as many believe. Actually there is a selection of 23 Nikon AF-S lenses and 17 Sigma lenses (16 HSM and the 80-400 OS) that are fully compatible with the D40 and D40x AF and a FL range from 10mm to 800mm.

Regards

Walter

Nikon AF-S lenses:

12-24/4 DX

17-55/2.8 DX

18-55/3.5-5.6 DX I

18-55/3.5-5.6 DX II

18-70 DX

18-135 DX

18-200 DX VR

55-200 DX

17-35/2.8 AF-S

24-85/3.5-4.5 AF-S

24-120 AF-S VR

28-70/2.8

70-200/2.8 VR

70-300 VR

105/2.8 VR

200/2 VR

200-400/4 VR

300/2.8 VR

300/4 AF-S

400/2.8 AF-S

500/4 AF-S

600/4 AF-S

Sigma HSM lenses:

10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC

12-24mm F4.5-5.6

17-35mm F2.8-4 DG

50-500mm F4-6.3 DG

50-150mm F2.8 EX DC HSM

70-200mm F2.8 DG MACRO

80-400mm F4.5-5.6

100-300mm F4 DG

120-300mm F2.8 DG

300-800mm F5.6 DG

14mm F2.8 EX

30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM

150mm F2.8 EX DG

180mm F3.5 EX DG

300mm EX DG

500mm EX DG

800mm f5.6 EX DG

Maybe there is a lot more choice of compatible lenses than I thought. I think its that I just like buying new electronics all the time!

Maybe there is a lot more choice of compatible lenses than I thought.

Exactly. :p

i think its that I just like buying new electronics all the time!

well photography is the place for that then, you just gotta know where to spend it so it's not a waste :)

Thanks for your tips crazy! Another D40 thread wont hurt anyone lol. I will be investing in a wide lens very soon. Got some great countryside around me so will be good to capture some of it!

Now Im thinking wide Im also thinking about a Fish-eye also... got my eyes on a few. I know fish-eyes are really all for effect I have a few ideas to experiment with though.

eh, I'm really anti-fish eye. I think they're silly.

However, in regards to the wide angle, I have to say I highly recommend Tokina. My tokina 12-24mm F4 is great and they also have a 11-16mm f2.8 which is even better. And, sigh, they also make a fish eye :p

I guess I go for realism in my photos, so that's why I'm not a big fan of fish eye. Even distortion at 12mm bothers me and I was looking for away to fix it last night :p

Also, I feel that the lens is pretty limiting, at least for my uses. It's all personal preference. :)

Also, I feel that the lens is pretty limiting, at least for my uses. It's all personal preference. :)

Its very true you are limited with the fish eye, its really a gimmick. It can be used though for some great landscape wide shots. I love the way it warps rooms as well, can see me experimenting with some Panoramics.

I may get one of the below though with another lens.

Samyang 8mm f/3.5 Fisheye

http://cgi.ebay.co.u...5644cc4fffdff25

Peleng 8mm f3.5 Fisheye

http://www.rugift.co..._nikon_lens.htm

I've read great reviews on the both but not really seen much difference between them to pay more for the peleng. Will more than likely go for the Samyang.

I love the way it warps rooms as well, can see me experimenting with some Panoramics.

Maybe I suck with post processing (OK, actually I REALLY suck with post processing) but I'd think the distortion caused by fish eye lenses won't work well with stitching panoramics. Ive had trouble even with my super wide at 12mm, let alone a fish eye!

  • 3 weeks later...

Maybe I suck with post processing (OK, actually I REALLY suck with post processing) but I'd think the distortion caused by fish eye lenses won't work well with stitching panoramics. Ive had trouble even with my super wide at 12mm, let alone a fish eye!

Check this out:

http://fiveprime.org/hivemind/Tags/fisheye,panorama

I just love how some of the pics look I know some look over the top but I just love the distortion it gives... I think I may swap my 50mm 1.4 for the 35mm 1.4 AF-S as I can then use auto-focus! :D.. Also will probably get he Sigma 8mm still.

Hmmm maybe Im confused.. Its not so much about upgrade really its choice. The d40 has such limited choice of lenses for good prices that its a hard time searching for ones that are compatible.

I can easily get a D90 body for £500.. is that not much of a difference ?

I'm looking to get a D90 and I'm saving for it at the moment. If I could get it for £500, I'd be able to get it a bit sooner. Where did you see it at that price?

Cheapest I've seen is Jessops at £610 with a £60 send in refund from Nikon...

By the way, most of those pics you linked to are stitched together panoramic, I don't think you can really get a lens which is THAT wide! At least not for less than thousands of pounds.

I'm looking to get a D90 and I'm saving for it at the moment. If I could get it for ?500, I'd be able to get it a bit sooner. Where did you see it at that price?

Cheapest I've seen is Jessops at ?610 with a ?60 send in refund from Nikon...

By the way, most of those pics you linked to are stitched together panoramic, I don't think you can really get a lens which is THAT wide! At least not for less than thousands of pounds.

Well ?500 was a bit low but you can get it here for ?549 + ?7.99 delivery which ain't bad at all!

http://www.camerabox.co.uk/product.asp?ProductID=5761&gclid=CIHj_6yI3qECFZFh4wod7CsPKQ

I am looking more into compatible wide lenses for my D40.. in a couple years when I have more experience I will look into upgrading my body.

Not bad at all, I'd found it for less than that but the reviews for the site I found it on were hit and miss, this site seems more reputable, thanks :)

BTW, does "European Stock Therefore No Cashback Just Cheap Prices"

Mean that I wouldn't be able to claim the £60 cashback from Nikon?

(sorry for hijacking your thread a bit :blush:)

Not bad at all, I'd found it for less than that but the reviews for the site I found it on were hit and miss, this site seems more reputable, thanks :)

BTW, does "European Stock Therefore No Cashback Just Cheap Prices"

Mean that I wouldn't be able to claim the ?60 cashback from Nikon?

(sorry for hijacking your thread a bit :blush:)

Basically you wouldn't need to claim the cashback, they have either already done it or you are unable too probably explaining the cheaper price! lol.. thats my guess anyways. Seems like they offer 5 year warranty as well!

This topic is now closed to further replies.
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
  • Posts

    • HOLY THREAD REVIVAL   But yes, look for browser.nova.enabled and set it to true
    • 5-year subscription to AdGuard VPN price-dropped now 90% off by Steven Parker Today's highlighted deal comes via our Apps + Software section of the Neowin Deals store, where you can save 88% off a 5-year subscription to AdGuard VPN. In the digital age where internet privacy is paramount, AdGuard VPN emerges as an essential tool. This virtual private network (VPN) is your encrypted gateway to the internet, helping your data stay secure and your online activities remain private, regardless of your location. More than just a privacy tool, AdGuard VPN is a robust solution packed with features that cater to a variety of internet needs. Why AdGuard VPN subscription deal over other VPNs: Exhaustive List of Locations: With 60+ locations available worldwide, you have the freedom to connect from anywhere you want, effectively bypassing geographically restricted content. Check complete list of servers here. Advanced Security Protocol: AdGuard VPN uses its own security protocol, guaranteeing a faster and safer VPN connection. This means you can browse, stream, and download with peace of mind knowing your data is secure. Zero-Logging Policy: Rest assured, your personal data is not collected and your internet traffic stays private at all times, thanks to AdGuard's strict zero-logging policy. Simultaneous Connections: Connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, providing protection for all your devices under just one account. Trusted Developer: AdGuard is a renowned name in the world of computer security, bringing their expertise and commitment to privacy and security to their VPN service. What You Get: Up to 10 devices connected simultaneously All locations Light-speed servers Unlimited data No logs policy Trusted developer Available on all platforms Privacy Created by a team from Russia, AdGuard software Limited is headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus. While the country does follow European privacy laws, it's not part of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. Adguard may not properly work in China. Good to know Length of access: 5 years This plan is only available to new users Redemption deadline: redeem your code within 30 days of purchase Device per license: 10 Access options: desktop & mobile Updates included 5- years of AdGuard VPN normally costs $359.40 without discounts, but it can be yours just $39.97, that's a saving of $324.43 (90%) off. For full terms, specifications, and license info please click the link below. Get this 5-year AdGuard VPN deal for just $34.97 (was $359.40) Although priced in U.S. dollars, this deal is available for digital purchase worldwide. Support queries If you have queries or need support for any of the Neowin Deals, please use the contact form here. Neowin Deals are managed and sold by StackCommerce who represent Neowin on an affiliate basis. Why we post these deals We post these because we earn commission on each sale so as not to rely solely on advertising, which many of our readers block. It all helps toward paying staff reporters, servers and hosting costs. So for those that keep moaning and complaining, be thankful we're still online for you to even do that. Other ways to support Neowin Whitelist Neowin by not blocking our ads Create a free member account to see fewer ads Make a donation to support our day to day running costs Subscribe to Neowin - for $14 a year, or $28 a year for an ad-free experience Disclosure: Neowin benefits from revenue of each sale made through our branded deals site powered by StackCommerce.
    • KillerPDF 1.5.1 by Razvan Serea KillerPDF is a lightweight, portable PDF editor for Windows built for users who want full control without subscriptions, installers, or telemetry. It runs as a single executable, making it ideal for USB use and field work. You can view PDFs with smooth PDFium rendering, navigate quickly with thumbnails, zoom, and shortcuts, and reorganize pages using drag-and-drop. It supports merging multiple PDFs, splitting documents, and extracting selected pages. KillerPDF also allows inline text editing with font matching to preserve the original layout, plus annotations like text boxes, freehand drawing, highlights, and reusable signatures. You can search full text, copy content easily, and print documents with flattened annotations. Designed as a free and open alternative to bloated PDF tools, it works fully offline on Windows 10/11 x64. No runtimes install. Everything needed is inside the EXE (targets .NET Framework 4.8, which ships with every supported Windows release). KillerPDF key features: High-quality PDF rendering via PDFium Edit PDF text inline (double-click to modify text) Page thumbnails and fast navigation with zoom and shortcuts Merge multiple PDFs into one Split PDFs and extract selected pages Drag-and-drop page reordering Font matching to preserve original document appearance Text boxes for notes Freehand drawing tools Highlight overlays with adjustable color, size, opacity Undo actions and clear per-page annotations Create, draw, and save reusable signatures Click-to-place signatures anywhere Full-text search with highlighted results Drag-select or Ctrl+A to copy text Print with annotations flattened Portable single-file app (~10 MB) No installer, no admin rights required No account, no telemetry KillerPDF 1.5.1 changelog: Performance Save Flattened PDF now uses multiple CPU cores. Page rasterization is parallelized (PNG encoding runs across cores; the PDFium render step stays serialized since the library isn't thread-safe), so large documents flatten significantly faster while the UI stays responsive (#68). Fixed PDFs that failed to open with "Unexpected EOF" now open (#72). The failure was PdfSharpCore's Flate inflater (SharpZipLib) rejecting the FlateDecode cross-reference stream on multi-revision PDFs - files that open fine in browsers, Acrobat, and Foxit. KillerPDF now detects this and re-opens the file losslessly through PDFium, preserving selectable text. Thanks to @javajon for the report and a detailed reproduction. Grid view renders every page. It was capped at the first 26 pages, so longer documents stopped loading partway through. Tiles also stream in progressively now instead of blocking until the whole document is rendered. Grid Ctrl+Scroll no longer reloads every page when the zoom is already at its limit and nothing would change. Removed a stray horizontal scrollbar (a thin green line) that could appear across the bottom of grid view. Files on UNC / network shares (including the WSL \\wsl$ filesystem) are copied locally before opening, avoiding partial-read failures on network filesystems. Changed Minimum zoom lowered from 10% to 5%, so grid view can pack more columns (helpful for wide/landscape pages) and single-page view can zoom out further. Download: KillerPDF 1.5.1 | 6.3 MB (Open Source) Link: KillerPDF Home Page | Github | Screenshot Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • You can enable the Nova redesign in Firefox 152 stable, under about:config.
  • Recent Achievements

    • One Year In
      Console General earned a badge
      One Year In
    • One Year In
      Twozo Technologies earned a badge
      One Year In
    • One Month Later
      Twozo Technologies earned a badge
      One Month Later
    • Week One Done
      Twozo Technologies earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • Veteran
      branfont went up a rank
      Veteran
  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      520
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      196
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      111
    4. 4
      Steven P.
      89
    5. 5
      Nick H.
      71
  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!