Originally posted by: Monoman
okay, last questions.. 🙂
I've read hear and there but to you, would you chose the 10D or the D100 based on camera alone.
I am not on a huge crunch for time in buying my gear, just the more time I waste on debating which is better for me, the less time I could be shooting 🙂
I usually equivocate an answer when considering a camera w/out a lens system.
The glass is what will make or break your interest in the long run.
Pretending that the body is the only issue I choose the 10D. The D100 in terms of product age and technical specification is actually marketed against the Canon D60; the 10D's predecessor. However, capability of the D100 brings it more closely to the strengths of the 10D. Not that closely, but closer. There are a [/i]few[/i] features in the D100 which Nikon does better than Canon between these two bodies but they're not weighing factors for me.
If there's something I don't like about the 10D it's the [relatively] slow startup and image preview time compared to the D100. For everything else I prefer Canon's methodology. Personally I find the 10D menu navigation more intuitive and the 10's button/dial/feature access felt natural out of the box. Some say the D100 is a natural fit for them but I tried both and as far as I'm concerned if it takes less clicks, fewer movements and doesn't require a significant change in hand placement to change settings on the fly then that's the system for you.
Expanded ISO range and lower noise at higher ISO in favor of Canon. The 10D weighs slightly more and that's because of the full magnesium alloy body and substantial build. It just
feels like a more quality piece of equipment IMO. I actually like the 1.6x crop factor of the 10D because it gives the extra reach to my lenses. The same focal length lens on a D100 will achieve a slightly shorter reach because of the 1.5x crop factor (search in FM regarding crop factor). I care more about telephoto than WA. The closer you get to full frame (Film 35mm reference) the more effective WA lenses perform; becoming more of a non-issue with the release of better WA and third party options from all the major manufacturers.
You can get just as ardent an opinion of what
feels best from a D100 owner. You've had the opportunity to handle a 10D; now see if you can get ahold of a D100 and compare what you think you prefer. Then compare the specs down the list side by side and determine which features are worth your money.
Based on specs alone the 10D is the technological choice over the D100. Based on build quality the 10D is closer to a Pro build than the D100. Based on a lens system; Canon has better performing lenses at lower expense (Nikon's pro gear pricing will kick your a$$). Eventually you're going to want the better glass even if you get what's 'affordable' now. You HAVE to consider the expense and capability of the lenses you'd like to shoot with. A couple/few years from now your 10D/D100 will still be a nice camera but you're going to be interested in the newer technology. Quality lenses will last your lifetime.
Your personal interest and perception may be different than mine so I won't tell you to buy one or the other. Just figure out what's most important to you and then save your money to do it right. Ask specific questions if you think of any. Aside from a from a spec sheet however, asking for opinions is going to get you just that; which may or may not do your own preferences justice.
