Canon’s newest prosumer digital SLR, the EOS 40D, is more than an updated EOS 30D; it is a ground breaking advanced amateur camera. Released in September 2007, the EOS 40D sports a similar chassis to the 20D and 30D; the 40D is a lightweight, feature-packed, digital SLR with Canon’s new DIGIC III Image Processor, EOS Integrated Cleaning System, 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, 6.5 frame-per-second capability, high precision auto focus, and new 3-inch LCD screen.
Strengths: -Solid build, large magnesium frame body. Feels very natural in hands.
-6.5fps burst mode is terrific for sporting events.
-Firmware interface is easy to navigate and understand.
-Custom Settings allow unique possibilities that go beyond what comes out of the box.
-3.0in LCD screen is bright and clear. Allows you to zoom in and out of image previews.
Weaknesses: -No video. I knew this when I bought the camera, but there are still many times where I wish I could flip this to video mode and capture live action. If this is even remotely important to you, you will miss this feature. However I think it is a blessing in disguise to those new to DSLR's because shooting video is an entirely different animal than shooting still's so in a way I am glad the 40D forced me to focus on one thing at a time.
-Limited ISO. With the latest DSLR's going into 5 and 6 digit ISO's, you might find yourself with a bit of ISO envy, but this camera still performs well enough in low light situations if you have fast glass.
-Heavy. A blessing and a curse. As stated above under "Strengths" this camera has a magnesium frame that feels solid and well built, but it is also heavy and can become a load when combined with heavier lenses.
Bottom Line:
The Canon EOS 40D was introduced in 2007 as a mid-level DSLR to replace the 30D. It has a 10.1MP APS-C sensor with 1600iso (expandable to 3200) and up to 6.5fps burst mode.
Yes this camera is getting up there in age, but as I learned it can be the perfect entry level camera for those who are considering the move from Point and Shoot to DSLR. That is where I was when I purchased this camera. I had basic photography knowledge but most of the features on DSLR's were still a mystery. That didn't stop me from hitting the ground running with the 40D. The age of this camera also enables you to find very good deals out there on used or refurbished bodies. You can probably pick up some of the newer models such as the T3i for a similar price, but those bodies don’t have the solid feel of the 40D body.
As soon as you pick this camera up you will like it. The magnesium frame has good weight and a solid feel in your hands. The body is wrapped in a rubber texture that provides all the grip you need and the controls are all very accessible to your thumbs and fingers without stretching or bending. After just a few weeks of shooting I was able to adjust many settings while still looking through the viewfinder. The shutter gives that delightful "click" that you expect from a DSLR and it will bring a satisfied smile to your face the first time you hear it. A much different feeling than the generic sounds most P&S cameras make.
Besides your basic AUTO shooting mode (where ISO, shutter speed, aperture, white balance and auto-focus are all selected for you) the 40D includes many of the popular features you would expect from Canon DSLR's. There are several creative zones such as portrait, landscape, sports, and of course your standard program (P), aperture priority (Av), shutter speed priority (Tv) and full manual (M) modes. So this camera can grow with you as your proficiency progresses.
A great feature of this camera is the Custom Feature CF settings that are available. I have been shooting with the 40D for almost a year now and I am still learning more about its features every time I go out to shoot. Every time I think I have pushed this body to the limit, I discover a setting that allows me to take it further. For example the standard ISO is limited to 1600 but can be expanded to 3200 in CF. The camera actually performs well at these ISO's. There isn't as much noise as one might expect from a 5 year old camera.
The 9 AF points can be selected individually or used all together and the camera will select the focus point for you. This is useful especially when shooting wildlife where you need to focus on the subject through branches and leaves. There are several Auto Focus modes to choose from (One shot for stills, AI Servo for moving objects, AI Focus will switch between the two modes automatically).
All in all this is a solid camera with a healthy set of features and customizable options that can help even the most novice user dive into the world of DSLR's and begin taking fantastic photo's immediately.
Similar Products Used: I recently upgraded to the Canon 7D and I expected it to leave my 40D in the dust. The difference is not as extreme as one might think. The video mode is fantastic on the 7D and you do have the higher resolution and ISO, but all things being equal the 40D can still hold it's own against newer models.
Weaknesses: FPS could be better....am looking forward to getting the 7D for the improved FPS!
Bottom Line:
the 40D is a great, solid camera. I use the hand grip for the extra battery life. With 2 batteries in the grip, I can shoot more than 4x as long as with just 1 battery. I also use a Quantum Compact Turbo battery to boost my flash. All these accessories make the camera unit very heavy, but the extra battery life is essential.
The quality of the photos are great. I have also shot in very low light situations with my 17-55mm f2.8 lens and have been successful without a flash...just holding the camera steady! I know tripods are better for these kinds of situations, but I can't carry a tripod wherever I go.
The larger LCD screen is awesome to have for quick reviews. I recently picked up a friend's 10D and was surprised at how small the LCD screen is.
The 40D has a MUCH faster startup time and image processing time.
Strengths: - beautifully made
- not too big or heavy
- pretty fast
- highlight tone priority
- high quality images
- generally better than its successors
I bought a second hand model to use in conjunction with my 450D. It has a very fast frame rate which is useful for sports & produces excellent images. It is pretty easy to use but the 450D does show how much progress Canon have made on the usability front in a short space of time.
Difficult to fault this camera. It is used by many professionals & could become a classic in the Canon range. I do not believe the 50D is as good as the sensor on the 40 doesn't have to work so hard to manage the smaller number of megapixels.
I don't find noise a problem as some others have. The noise reduction algorithm seems to be effective when applied alongside correct techniques & quality glass.
Now that the 40 is no longer made, there are great opportunities to pick up mint models second hand at bargain prices. The price I paid included a battery grip & other extras. Get one I say!
Strengths: Ergonomically stable and great with big hands.
Controls are not bunched up but spread out and easy to fiddle.
Weaknesses: Too soon replaced by the 50D for a mere few tweeks.
Canon should have called the 50D the 40D Mark II instead...
Bottom Line:
Great menu system specially the Green Star menu.
The Green Star menu is a default menu you can program with your favorite menus!
Pressing the Menu button will bring up all your favorite Menus you have chosen to file under the Green Star!
Way cool!
