Canon 500D vs Nikon D40

Lets look more closely at the Canon 500D versus Nikon D40, both Entry-Level DSLR digital cameras by rivals Canon and Nikon. There is a noticeable difference between the resolutions of the 500D (15MP) and D40 (6MP) but both cameras provide the identical sensor sizing (APS-C).

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The 500D was revealed 2 years after the D40 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before going straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a concise overview of how the 500D scores against the D40 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon EOS 500D & Nikon D40. The full galleries are viewable at Canon 500D Gallery & Nikon D40 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry around your camera often, you are going to need to factor its weight and volume. The Canon 500D offers physical dimensions of 129mm x 98mm x 62mm (5.1" x 3.9" x 2.4") and a weight of 520 grams (1.15 lbs) whilst the Nikon D40 has sizing of 124mm x 94mm x 64mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.5") with a weight of 522 grams (1.15 lbs).

Look at the Canon 500D versus Nikon D40 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using at that time. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the 500D vs the D40.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the 500D and D40 is 70 and 71 respectively.

In many cases, it can be difficult to visualize the gap between sensor sizes just by looking at technical specs. The pic underneath may give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the 500D and D40.

As you can tell, both the cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different resolution. You can count on the Canon 500D to resolve extra detail because of its extra 9MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The fresher 500D provides an edge when it comes to sensor tech.