Canon 1Ds MII vs Nikon D40

Below is a in depth overview of the Canon 1Ds MII and Nikon D40, one being a Pro DSLR and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Canon and Nikon. There is a sizeable difference between the image resolutions of the 1Ds MII (17MP) and D40 (6MP) and the 1Ds MII (Full frame) and D40 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizes.

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The 1Ds MII was released 14 months prior to the D40 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both cameras have different body design with the Canon 1Ds MII being a Large SLR camera and the Nikon D40 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the 1Ds MII matches up against the D40 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II and Nikon D40. The complete galleries are provided at Canon 1Ds MII Gallery and Nikon D40 Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to think about its weight and proportions. The Canon 1Ds MII features physical dimensions of 156mm x 158mm x 80mm (6.1" x 6.2" x 3.1") having a weight of 1565 grams (3.45 lbs) and the Nikon D40 has measurements of 124mm x 94mm x 64mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.5") and a weight of 522 grams (1.15 lbs).

Check the Canon 1Ds MII and Nikon D40 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the 1Ds MII and the D40.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the 1Ds MII and D40 is 50 and 71 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements merely by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic here will provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1Ds MII and D40.

Clearly, both the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The 1Ds MII due to its bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Canon 1Ds MII will give you more detail as a result of its extra 11 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots more aggressively. The older 1Ds MII is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.