Canon XSi / 450D currently shares almost the same price point with Nikon D3000. If you are potential buyer, you might be confused on which one to buy. Nikon D3000 is a newer camera, it replace Nikon D60. Canon XSi is currently replaced by Canon T1i, but XSi is still on production.
Other than price, Canon XSi and Nikon D3000 have many things in commons, such as small and light (relative to DSLR camera), 18-55mm kit lens, 3 inches LCD screen with 230k resolution and targeted for beginners.
Being newer does not mean that Nikon D3000 is better than Canon XSi. They have some similarities and differences.
Here are Canon XSi advantages
- 2 extra megapixel
- Slightly faster continuous shooting 3.5 fps vs 3 fps
- Built-in Auto Focus motor
- Live view mode
Here are Nikon D3000 advantages
- Wider ISO range : 100-3200
- Better image quality (color depth and dynamic range by around 1/2 stop)
- Guide Mode
- Built-in photo retouch
- Solid feel and better ergonomic
In conclusion, it is pretty hard to pick which is the best. On one side, Canon XSi is compatible with all Canon EOS lenses while Nikon D3000 only compatible with newer Nikon lens that has auto focus which is more expensive and some of them are slow.
XSi also has live view mode (so you can compose picture with LCD screen like you do in compact cameras). This feature is not as practical to use like in compact camera because the auto focus is slow, but it is is useful for composition in tough angle and macro photography.
However, if you are looking for better ergonomic, user friendliness and image quality, and don’t mind to spend extra dollars for newer Nikon lenses, Nikon D3000 is a better option.
Don’t forget to read my Nikon D3000 review.
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hi,
i will be buying a DSLR camera, and the same question has occurred to me too. I do mainly macro photography, action sports such as street racing, and also sometimes when needed Landscape photography, but this is my first time i am buying a DSLR camera, any choices what i should buy. I would prefer better picture quality and depth rather than a huge image.
Please reply fast.
Both camera almost has the same quality with their respective kit lens.
However, lens you choose later, will have more impact on the quality.
Any camera would do well, but If i were you, I’ll choose Canon because Nikon D3000 does not have built-in AF motor so it is not compatible with many lenses. Also, Canon lenses are generally cheaper especially in pro grade lenses.
I have heard that an attachment to the lens 18-55mm helps the camera to have more telephoto and also to take macro photographs more easily, could I know a bit more about these attachments, and also is there a way to block direct sunlight coming to the lens from one corner, though the sun is not in the picture.
I would also like to know about the UV-B filters available in the market, and how they can be attached to the lens.
Please help me out..
I would also like to know some good 3 party lenses for canon cameras, i have heard that they are cheap and also good. For example : the “Opteka 500-1000mm High Definition Preset Telephoto Lens for Canon EOS 50D, 40D, 30D, 20D, 10D, Digital Rebel XT, XTi, XS, XSi, & T1i Digital SLR Cameras” which is available in amazon, http://www.amazon.com/Opteka-500-1000mm-Definition-Telephoto-Digital/dp/B001GKJNGK/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=photo&qid=1257734351&sr=1-7
avoid opteka unless you desperately need that optical range. The image quality is significantly worse than regular dslr lenses.
Avoid UV-B filters as well,they degrade image quality, unless you buy expensive uv filter like HOYA, which can cost $100+ a piece.
im looking for a dslr to replace my girlfriends nikon n75, do you have any good ideas. i was thinking about the d3000 but idk
Hi, i’m looking for a DSLR camera. And, first id been hearing a lot of praises about the D60, but i can’t seem to find stores that are selling it, and then i came across the D3000 which as I’ve heard, is a replacement to the d60. So, i googled, and i came across your conclusions to the controversy.
But, before i decided on buying the Canon OR the Nikon.
I had a few questions….and it’d be great if you could reply.
I’m a person that is looking for really good photos. I enjoy using macro. having a live view mode is nice, but, looking into the lens won’t kill me.
I’m also looking for clear photos. If you have anymore questions youd like to ask me, go ahead. I will be checking back on this site frequently for your answer anyways.
I’ve used a canons rebel xsi before, and i currently own a canon powershot sd780 is as well.
But, if you were me, what would you go with?
(oh, and by the way- I don’t think i am the type of person that wants to buy trillions of lenses, i just want one thats with the kit, that i am suitable with, and thats it.)
PLEASE REPLY SOON! Holiday season is coming up, and i’d like to buy my camera during the sale.
If I were you i’ll get the D3000 (because you will likely only use kit lens) and you want the best image quality (dynamic range).
ok…so ive been trying to decide on the d3000 or xsi and its soooo much thinking my brain hurts..i dunno….i would b doing like landscape mayb and natural stuff like ansel adams type stuffz…and macro too sometimes….so which would i go with? why? and i would use the kit lens and buy a wide angle and telephoto eventually but im sooooo confused and its just such a hard decision..and i was looking to buy around january so should i wait or wat? i need ur help. ive held both cameras b4 and ive used a nikon (1st i evr used) and canon 50d and xs or xsi…i dunno….they both r amazing i kno but still….thx
@ahhh hellppp how about getting a camera that fits in your hand better?
they both fit in my hands but i just dont kno which one to buy…..the canon xsi or nikon d3000
i was saying that i have used a 50d and xs or xsi b4. i have also used a nikon..i like both brands but i dont kno which camera…the nikon d3000 or canon xsi
ok take Canon XSi
thank you sooooooooooooooooo much…but why?
if everything else equal, you’ve tried many canon camera interface, so you are more familiar with it. Learning new camera interface and get used to it takes time.
Some D3000 features are geared to complete beginners (guide mode), photo retouch. XSi features such as live view mode and total lens compatibility with all Canon EOS lenses might be better for more experience shooter.
In addition, Canon lenses collection are the most complete in the market.
Hi all, and hi Admin. I’m also looking at what to buy, I have on my list the Canon 18-55 ($600 w/ extra batt, UV filter and Canon bag), Nikon 18-55, and have also seen a very affordable Olympus E420 w/ 18-45 ($350) and optional 40-150mm for $100. I also considered the Sony A230 but after reading some reviews it seems they messed up the menu and ergonomics and it’s a step backwards compared to the A200. Not to mention the CCD’s hunger for power, so I discarded it. I did some reading on all three, seems the Canon is the best way to go, (AF, anti dust, live view, 12MP, lens compatibility etc.) but is more expensive to the almost equal Nikon, and is almost twice the price from the Olympus. I’ve owned and used cameras for a long time, had some simple point and shoot, moved to a russian film camera, then took my first Canon PS 420 and am doing some Photoshop editing, as is my wife. We’re looking for a camera that we’d use to take macro photos (me), and landscape/panoramas (my wife) that we hope on printing and selling. I don’t presume we’ll be taking too many indoor photos as we’re both nature freaks, we’ll probably take some night photos but most of the time we’ll be making daylight photos, both sunlight and cloudy weather. We’re all for clear photography, good color and exposure, but we’d rather not pay too much for it
We like the live view with the Canon, we like the color accuracy of the Nikon and we love the price of the Olympus.
The live view is not a necessity most of the times, colors can be corrected in Photoshop, and we’re beyond the cheap camera solutions… So, what would you suggest? The bottom line is that I’ll buy one of these three today on sale in a local store, so, please share your wisdom asap.
Hi, I am the admin, I just change my nickname hehe.
I think Canon XS / 1000D will be a good compromise. It does not have plenty features but essential one + live view. It is quite affordable as well. The 10 mp sensor is about the same quality as Canon XSi / 450D.
I am not a fans of Olympus because the sensor is smaller so that the quality of the image is not as good as Canon-Nikon beginner cameras. Olympus cameras are usually optimized for its compactness.
Hello! I’m having trouble finding a clear answer on this question. I’m looking to purchase my first DSLR, primarily for portrait shots (I am a costumer) and photographs of sculptures that I have made. Obviously, colour accuracy is extremely important for both of these uses. I was at the shop yesterday, and the salesman (never trust ‘em) said that the D3000 would be better for me than the XSi. However, my own research is turning up that people generally consider the D3000 to have extremely poor colour accuracy.
Now I’m wondering whether this is true, and whether I should go for the XSi (which he insisted was better for action shots, because ‘that’s what Canon makes their lenses for’) and the D3000 (which he said was better for portraiture, which is mostly what I’m doing). A friend who is a former model and associates with numerous professional photographers says that everyone she knows prefers Canon over Nikon.
Hi Julia, I am no expert on color accuracy, but I think that no camera has perfect accuracy. There are many factor affecting the camera to get perfect color such as ambient light, lens, etc. To get perfect accurate color, I suggest to take picture in RAW mode, and then use a good calibrated monitor then color correct it in the photoshop (image editing software).
Anyway, about the camera, I think you will be benefited more with Canon XSi, because of the live view mode and lens compatibility.
Hi!
i want to get either the nikon D3000 or the canon rebel XSI.
I cant decide!!! i will mostly be taking pictures of friends, family and scenery.
This would be my first DSLR camera. I like how the nikon holds and its buttons. I also like how the nikon has a warm tone to the pictures of people. On the canon i love how the pictures turn out. I would usually go for canon but im not sure with the nikon D3000!
please respond as soon as possible! thanks!
I think it is best to get Nikon D3000 because you like the user interface and handling.
I don’t know who in their right mind would buy a D3000 over the XSI.
The canon control system is just wayyy superior to the Nikon’s. You get dedicated ISO button right on the camera, same for WB, drive etc.. You get live view, built-in motor, possibility of battery grip and so on…..
The D3000 is a camera for real noobs who dont wanna get into photography, maybe the soccer mom who wants to look pro next to the other parents but still get a simple-as-point-and-shoot-SLR.
haha spot on, but I find so many people confess they like Nikon grip and interface better.
Hi the canon 450d when used not canon external flash the auto focus work or no and sorry my english not good thank yuo
Sorry mister, I can’t understand you, can you re-state it again? thanks.
Hi ok as you know the canon 450d AF asistance lihgt put in the pop up flash and when used non-canon external flash the AF asistance lihgt whil not work so the auto focus stil work or not thanks
oh, the auto focus will still work, but it will be a bit slow in low light/dark condition.
I have been using a point and shoot camera for a while now and pretty much maximized its potential and it is time for me to move onto a DSLR. I never really had a full understanding of most of the camera options and by trial/error as well as photoshop, I was able to make my photos work. With that in mind, I’m leaning towards getting one of Nikon/Canons top beginner models(i.e. Nikon D3000/D5000 or Canon XS/XSi/T1i). I was given the D3000 as a gift but ultimately want the most sufficient in the end. My original needs in a camera is close-ups, portraits and low-light scenes. But, I would like to expand to scenic photos.
I’m looking for a camera where I will be able to give it a solid year before considering an upgrade, learn plenty, maximize photographic possibilities and be able to produce high quality as if it were the professional models. Therefore, being able to purchase additional accessories is a necessity(i.e. lighting or additional lens). Budget is also a factor, but if a $50-$100 increase will satisfy my needs then I will be willing.
I can say I’m comfortable with the ergonomics of Nikon but at the same time I want to give Canon its chance, so I’ll be looking into that on my own.
I know it is a lot, but any advice or prior experiences would help. Thanks
@Matthew: changing camera body often will not help your photography a lot, but getting new lens appropriate for your photography is. My advice is to look at lenses instead of upgrading camera often.
But what camera would you recomend starting with?
Oh I thought you have D3000 on hand? If so, I suggest you to start with it.
I do, but I was trying to decided if I should return it and pay the $100 difference for the XSi or even D5000. I’m looking for a camera with potential and capabilties. After I get the hang on what each setting will do, I’m most positive I will keep the camera in manual mode and choose the settings according to the pictures environment. It just has been a decisive process for me.
Also, I will be looking to start product photography.
My suggestion will be still the same, start with what you have right now and explore photography. Take notes of the limitation you find in the camera when you use it. Then, after one year of extensive practice, you will finally know the best (suitable) gear for you.
I appreciate the advice. I’m new to your site and so far have found the material useful. Keep up the good work!
Thanks Matthew, good luck with your decision and photography. Stop by if you need anything.
I just ordered a used D3000. I’m a student and cost was one of my main factors in deciding between the two.
However I have realised by reading this that the Canon is compatible with all of the EOS lenses, which means that the auto focus will always function.
I think I have to switch! I also do weddings to bring in some money and the lack of a nikon branded battery grip worries me.
Does Canon make a Canon branded battery grip?
Also my lens choices would be 50mm f/1.8 and 28mm f/2.8.
I’ve read people saying Canon lens are cheaper but I’m not seeing it.
It looks like I should get the Canon., plus I do have to buy a photo printer as well so I should get the Canon right? Lol
Canon makes battery grip for almost all of their cameras and there are third party grip available in discounted price.
Check out Canon vs Nikon lenses comparison here.
So you are saying that I should go with the canon?
I need 50mm for sure…the canon’s 50mm 1.8 is a good buy but I read the build quality is poor on that one.
I won’t judge the entire lens set on that alone, its just that I will use that lens quite often.
D3000 just seemed like a better choice but the Canon has advantages that I can’t ignore?
I don’t like kit lens, so besides my 50mm what other lens can I use on the camera most of the time, considering that I’ll be doing portrait work primarily
You can’t auto focus when using nikon 50mm f/1.8 with D3000.
how important do you think live view is?
I went into Best Buy yesterday to take a look at three cameras- Canon Xsi, Nikon D3000, and D5000.
Honestly, I didn’t realize how much I’d be influenced by the aesthetic of the camera’s but I was. I like the feel and look of the Nikon much better. It actually looks like I spent half a grand on the equipment. I also liked how it felt in my hand better, and the cushiony eyepiece made looking at the viewfinder a more comfortable experience than the Canon.
I did like the dedicated hot buttons on the canon, and was actually more annoyed than impressed by Nikon’s in-menu system. But at the same time, I may be getting a little ahead of myself and will probably find the guide mode helpful. I am a noobie with dSLR’s after all.
I was also actually turned off my the d5000’s articulating display. It made the camera bulky, and I can’t really think of many situations that I would be taking pictures over people’s head, and if I need to take pictures at waist level, I could always just bend down. The video feature is definately cool, but I don’t think I could justify spending a couple hundred extra for it just yet.
I’m trying to decide what is more important- the presence of live view on the canon or the guide mode and aesthetic of the Nikon.
Also, I discovered that best buy has a neat deal where you get $100 off any lens when you buy an SLR through them.
They’re selling the d3000 for 500 including the 18-55 VR lens, and they also have a 55-200mm VR zoom lens for $250. If I bought the d3000 and the zoom lens with the discount, I’d get the body, the kit lens, and the zoom lens for $650, totally about $700 with tax. Do you think that’s a good deal?
And I’ve been reading reviews about how a 50mm lens is important to learn on. Why is that? Isn’t it just like a kit lens, but just stuck on 50mm?
Hi Noor, thanks for sharing your experience. I think it is pretty good deal because the telephoto zoom lens itself sells for $250.
People generally love 50mm because it has a big aperture, therefore you can take less blurry picture and blur the background more effectively. It has less distortion and generally sharper than kit lenses. It is also a fixed lens, that will force you to move instead of playing with zoom. By moving a lot, it is believed that your composition skill will be improved. Therefore, 50mm is popular for photography student. It is one of the cheapest lens in the market too.
Well….It looks like I should have bought the Canon XSi over the D3000…….
Based on my research, Lenses are the most important factor in my consideration, yet I still chose the D3000 because of the price. I bought mine BODY ONLY on ebay for $330. I thought that was a fabulous price! Even though I knew I can’t focus with many lenses I still bought it.
I feel stupid now!
My logic was that the nikon would make me work harder since I would have to manual focus and thus I would learn the trade well.
I now realise that Canon lenses are really cheaper than Nikon!
Thanks for the info guys……Now wht will i do with my Nikon????
Manual focus is extremely hard in DSLR because the viewfinder is not as good as in film cameras.
I think you should return it or trade it then
I thought all the pros use manual focus…..and this is how they have total control over their shots…..
I’ll try to get it off my hands and get the XSi…..
Oh well….thanks once again! You have been more than helpful
Now if you can please tell me the best two lenses to use in Wedding Photography and why.
No, that time has past (pro only use manual focus) it is a rangefinder era. (Leica shooters). Rangefinder camera viewfinder is very big, bright and crips. DSLR viewfinder especially beginner is very far from this type of viewfinder.
Best two lenses? Each photographers will have different opinion about this. I think the best lens will be that which covers 24 to 300mm.
For crop sensor like Canon XSi, Nikon D300 and the like, the best will be 17-55mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8. Notice that they both have constant and relatively big aperture of f/2.8. This will be very helpful in low light situation.
Man…..you are so damn helpful!
Great……..Well…I’m going to sell the Nikon….I have a potential buyer lined up….lol….
Those lenses are expensive!!!!! but I will save up to buy one soon……..
I now see why Canon is the best all around camera…(because of the lenses)
I guess it is an XSi and a 50mm f 1.8 to start……well……..
All I gotta do is include an OEM battery Grip and a Canon printer to make my prints and then I’m done!
hehe thanks, and have fun.
So what about the printers now…..?What printer should I get?…….lol…..
I just need one to do prints in my studio………
and by the way….? Which camera do you own or use the most often?
hahahaa… I am no expert about printer. So i give up. I don’t have printer in house.
Camera that I use most often is actually a compact camera. Ricoh GRDIII (Review http://www.radiantlite.com/2009/10/ricoh-grd3-review.html )
For work, Nikon D700 and Nikon D90.
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