Great Camera

I just bought this camera from Costco and love it. Came with the 18-55mm and 55-200mm Nikkor lenses. VERY easy to use and allows for beautiful pictures.

Basically, Nikon is trying to give the beginner a medium to use that is novice-oriented, yet yields semi-professional results.

I did anguish over whether to buy the D40x or the D80 and chose to go with the D40x based on a couple of reasons:

1. I enjoy taking good pictures, but I do not intend to be a photographer. The D80's capabilities would be wasted on someone who does not intend to fully explore photography, like myself.

2. LISTEN TO ME LOUD AND CLEAR: If you are thinking of getting a D80 and fit the description of #1 in how you will approach photography, then don't get a D80. The D40x is lighter, the menu is easier to use, the CCD is essentially the same, the two lenses (IMO) are better than the 18-135mm lens that comes with the D80, and it's cheaper all around. For a long time, I wondered why all of the forum-based websites' users kept saying "Get a D80, get a D80, get a D80"...kind of like drones. Then it hit me: They're all photographers.

Get the camera that suits your needs. If you think you might grow with photography, then get a D80 or a D200 for that matter. If not and you're like me, then get the D40x. You really won't be disappointed. Almost the same capabilities and it weighs only a pound or so. Ever lug the D80 around for an hour? Yeah, real fun at Disney in May.

What do I miss about the D40x? I'd like a bigger viewfinder and the 9 or 11 focal points would be nice, but trust me, I'll live.

Here is another key thing when listening to the "D80 crowd". Don't you think they're a little miffed that Nikon took their holy grail and essentially offered much of that camera, save a few items, in the form of a D40x? Food for thought when listening to those from the D80 side of the aisle.