How to Choose Between Nikon and Canon DSLR Cameras

Nikon and Canon are the two largest players in the DSLR market today. It is normal that DSLR buyers are torn between the two especially for first time to buyers of DSLRs. Here is a comparison between the two systems to help you choose the perfect camera and lens combination that will meet your needs.

Purchasing a DSLR camera for the first time is not simply buying a camera; it is actually buying into a camera system. When you buy a flash, extra lenses or other add-ons you can take these accessories to your next camera, hence it is never a small factor.

How to Choose Between Nikon and Canon DSLR Cameras

Both Nikon and Canon have a couple of entry-level SLR cameras with 18-55 mm starter lens which are under $1000. The camera body uses APS-C image sensors, roughly 75 per cent of the size of a 35 mm film frame. There is a lot of crop factor when using lenses on APS-C bodies because the lens mounts are based on 35 mm older film standards.

The EOS Rebel T3 is Canon's entry-level camera available at $429 while the Nikon D3100 is Nikon's which is available at $649. Both entry-level cameras feature pentamirror-style viewfinders, fixed rear LCD, limited to shooting 3 frames per second, basic autofocus systems which can hold when utilising the optical viewfinder, although it is notably slower when using the Live View to frame your shots.

As entry models, both Nikon and Canon feature a Guide Mode. The Guide Mode allows users to get acquainted with the camera's functions more than the standard, Program, Automatic, Aperture, Manual and Shutter SLR modes. The two entry-level SLR cameras offer a point-and-shoot Scene Modes which optimises the settings to what you are shooting.

On the other hand, the more expensive bodies of both sides increase the feature of the cameras too. The Canon EOS Rebel T4i which is available at $749 and the Nikon D5100 at $599 feature an articulating rear display and faster continuous shooting. The Canon EOS Rebel T4i is touch-sensitive and if you move to upgrade with the Canon EOS 7D at $1499 or the Nikon D7100 expect to have better autofocus, larger pentaprism viewfinder and more physical controls.

Basically, the two competes head-to-head at the price points as the Canon EOS Rebel T4i has a slight edge with its video autofocus whereas the Nikon D2500 has more advanced autofocus and an optional Wi-Fi adapter.