Is "Upgrading" from a D40 to a D70 Worth it?

[M0T0XGUY]

I normally hate to start multiple new threads on such a similar topic, but I thought that this question warranted its own spotlight. Basically, as the title suggests, I'm curious as to whether or not an upgrade from a D40 to a standard, body only D70 is worth the hassle.

From what I can discern, the only major improvements over the D40 include the internal focus drive (which, in reality, is quite major) and status LCD screen - although the additional control wheel and 5 point AF mode are nice touches as well. On the flip side, I do have to purchase the camera used, and the 1.8" LCD would really take some getting used to, especially after viewing the D40's 2.5" beauty for so long.

Assuming I can get a D70 in good condition for less than $400 (I certainly can) would it be worth selling my D40, and putting the profit towards a nicer (or additional) lens? Or is the D70 more a sidestep at this price than an upgrade?

Thanks in advance,
Nick

[Uncle Erik]

I have a D70s and my father has a D40. As far as picture quality, I think they're about the same. I can't tell the difference between photos taken with either.

The LCD readout up top is nice - it gives you information you need to get on the screen on the D40. Another small benefit is that the D70 battery seems to last longer, though the D40 batter isn't bad.

However, the internal focus drive is a big deal if you're going to use a lot of lenses. If you already have some extra lenses or are planning to buy more, then it's worth it.

[OverlordXenu]

I don't think it'd be worth it to get a D70 at all...Maybe a D70s.

Then again, I don't do digital so what do I know.

(Personally, I would probably just use a D40 or D80 if I wanted to go digital and didn't have the moolah for a D300 or D3.)

[M0T0XGUY]

Originally Posted by Uncle Erik

I have a D70s and my father has a D40. As far as picture quality, I think they're about the same. I can't tell the difference between photos taken with either.

The LCD readout up top is nice - it gives you information you need to get on the screen on the D40. Another small benefit is that the D70 battery seems to last longer, though the D40 batter isn't bad.

However, the internal focus drive is a big deal if you're going to use a lot of lenses. If you already have some extra lenses or are planning to buy more, then it's worth it.

That seems to be the deciding factor - although most lenses of significant interest to me are AF-S, a great majority of Nikkor and third party lenses are AF only.

I've also read that integrated focus drives are faster and more reliable than their lens mounted counterparts - although I'm not sure if this is completely true.

Still, I suppose that there isn't a necessity to upgrade (my D40 is serving me well as is) and will probably end up remaining with my current setup regardless.