- Average user rating: 4.0 stars out of 184 reviews Back to product review
- My rating: 0 stars
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20 out of 20 people found this review helpful
4.5 stars
"The Best Current Entry-Level DSLR"
Pros: Image quality, ergonomics, battery life, speed, lots of creative control, 1/500 sec. flash sync, can use lithium camera batteries in a pinch
Cons: No FireWire or USB 2.0, lowest ISO is 200
Summary: I did a lot of homework comparing the D70 to the Canon Digital Rebel and the new 20D. The Rebel seemed too plasticky and had far fewer manual/creative controls; the 20D compared more closely, but I didn't find it worth another $500, which is saying a lot, because generally I am a Canon fan (I own an A70 that I love, and also a Canon printer). That said, I'm very pleased with the D70. It takes great photos in any mode; it tends to underexpose ever-so-slightly, but this is preferable than blowing out highlights. In any case, it's an easy fix either in-camera or with software.
<p>Even when compared to newer competition, the D70 seems to hold up well. The 8mp cameras out there aren't really much different detail-wise than the D70. I checked out the Fuji FinePix S3 with its gee-whiz sensor and was unimpressed, especially for $1500+ over the D70. The Canons are all excellent, and it's a toss-up between the D70 and 20D. Both offer some features the other doesn't, and I'd recommend you investigate both thoroughly to see what fits your needs. Same for the new Rebel XT, which looks like a winner, too.
<p>For my part, the D70 fit my needs well. Ergonomically I think it's superior to both Canons; all of the major functions--white balance, ISO, EV compensation, etc.--are one button-push or dial-click away (you don't have to wade through menus). It also fits my hand better than Canon, though that's a personal preference. I like the high flash sync speed (one of the few things in which Canon lags behind), which is great for action and fill-flash, especially outdoors. The white balance is generally very good even in auto mode, much better than Canon, actually. The metering system is just fantastic, though I wish the D70 had the Flexi-Zone AF more like Canon (the D70's AF zones are not placed well for composition purposes, IMO). Two seemingly small things I really like are the CR3 lithium battery holder (great if your rechargable battery goes bad and all you can find are regular camera batteries) and the plastic (and replaceable) LCD protector. I can't believe Canon doesn't offer something similar.
<P>The 18-70mm lens that comes with the kit is very good. It focuses very quickly and takes great pictures. It does show some pretty obvious barrel distortion at wide angle, but I can live with it. It's much better than the cheapo they throw in with the Digital Rebel, though it does cost quite a bit more.
<p>Overall, the D70 is a great camera that will make you forget about shooting film, unless you're into medium or large format. I'd encourage you to compare it closely with Canon and see what works best for you. Both take great pictures; it's a matter of what features are important to you and, more important, which one feels better in your hand and is more enjoyable to use.
- 1 reply to this review
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Thank you for the review I am looking into getting my first digtal SLR after using film for year. this helps
