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Canon EOS 40D SLR Digital Camera Kit w/ 17-85mm Lens

Canon EOS 40D SLR Digital Camera Kit w/ 17-85mm Lens

(10.1MP, 3888x2592, CF Card Slot - MPN: 1901B026)
Description: Welcome to the next generation of digital SLR photography-the Canon EOS 40D. The EOS 40D combines Canon's tremendous know-how in both the digital and photographic worlds, creating a camera that not only does everything one would expect of a.... Read More

User Reviews

5 Star Review(7 Reviews)

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Date Reviewed:  01/10/2008
  • sots
  • Member Since:
    Dec 2007

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Strengths: Sturdy construction, settings adjustable via two dials (one on the top of the camera and one on the back, like the earlier 20D and 30D models), able to use EF-S lenses like the 17-55 IS, low price.
Weaknesses: None at all, unless you count the 17-85 lens. I'm not a fan.
Summary: After spending nearly two years clinging to a duct-taped-together 20D waiting for the 5D price to drop, now that the time has finally come -- my 20D kicked the bucket and used 5Ds selling for $1600 -- I am shocked to find that I made an entirely different decision. I am even more shocked to find that I don't regret it at all. The 40D is a superb camera, and an entirely viable option for professionals. Added bonuses are the ability to use EF-S lenses (like the excellent 17-55 IS) and the extra reach it gives my 70-200, making it the equivalent of an otherwise much more expensive and more cumbersome lens. Plus, at just over a thousand dollars for the 40D body alone, the price is unbeatable. The only downside is the kit lens that comes with it -- skip that, or sell it if it's cheaper to buy the camera with one. If you need an inexpensive walk-around lens, buy the Canon 50mm 1.8, a.k.a. "the nifty fifty," which can be found for around $70 US.

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Date Reviewed:  11/17/2007
  • akilakis
  • from CA
  • Member Since:
    Feb 2005

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    Product Experience:
    1 Months
Strengths: Solid magnesium alloy body construction. Ascetically pleasing with stylish well designed curves. Comfortable grip that fits well in my hands. A whole slew of specs and features that won't fit here.
Weaknesses: Considered to be pricey, but at the fast rate these cameras are selling, it’s not too pricey for a lot of the shutterbugs out there.
Summary: I’m a gadget guy. I love high tech, especially in well designed beautiful electronics that performs better than it looks. I love photography and have taken pictures all over the world using everything from small pocket cameras to digital SLRs. I love this camera because it gives you great extensive control with so many features that is friendly to use resulting in high quality photos. This kit also ships with a great very capable lens considered to be one of the best walk around lens in its class.

Some professional reviews rate the 40D as Canon’s best prosumer camera with qualities that rival some of the more expensive full frame DSLR cameras (one even suggested that “the EOS 40D is much more like a "mini EOS 1D MkIII" than an "upgraded Rebel XTi) at a fraction of the cost. You’re able to use the legendary higher quality L series Canon lenses (at a 1.6 crop factor), but Canon is producing some smaller S lenses that are specially designed for this body type that use the same Ultra Density glass that’s used in the L series such as the super fast razor sharp Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM lens. This lens list for around $1,000 and shows Canon’s dedication to the EF-S body that’s here to stay.

Did I already mention that the most important feature of the Canon 40D is that it has the ability to take amazing photos?

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Date Reviewed:  01/02/2008
  • TheHobbit
  • Member Since:
    Jul 2004

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    Product Experience:
    1 Months
Strengths: Large LCD screen for easy viewing.
Weaknesses: None
Summary: Great camera. This camera is heavy compared to the Canon Rebel XTI. This feels as heavy as your old film type cameras. When you hold the camera, it just feels good in your hands. It takes very good pictures and can take pictures up to 6.5 FPS. It comes with the canon strap that advertises to other people whenever you're in a tourist spot that you have a very good camera. Don't forget to buy the Canon Speedlite 580EX II if you want to take pictures indoors.

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Date Reviewed:  12/12/2007
  • jciron
  • Member Since:
    Nov 2006

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    Product Experience:
    15 Days
Strengths: Professional image Lots of Options Little noise Solid built quality
Weaknesses: None I can think of.
Summary: I've had this camera for a few weeks now. I took photos of our school, my relatives, and puppy...and I am impressed totally with the image quality.

All I can say is...yes photographers are good at what they do...but without excellent equipment like eos40d and great lens...I don't think they can do much.

This is my first DSLR, and I am already taking some photos that I think belong in the magazines...so I am sure you can as well.

I really like the solid magnesium build quality, weather seal, fast charging, and all the options that are logically placed at your finger tip when you need them.

I have yet to discover more functions by reading the manual but so far I am totally pleased with my purchase.

I highly recommend this camera to anyone interested in DSLR.

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Date Reviewed:  12/03/2007
  • mainomega
  • Member Since:
    Sep 2006

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    Product Experience:
    1 Weeks
Strengths: 10.1 MP sensor, Canon name, fast FPS, size, weight, flash, features
Weaknesses: a bit expensive
Summary: I upgraded from a Rebel XT and I am impressed. One of the nicest features is Live View, if I need a high shot I can at least still frame the subject correctly. The fast FPS is amazing, I've already gotten some great shots I would have missed without the fast FPS. I wish the warranty was longer but I can't really complain as this thing is built like a tank. I'm saving for some L lenses but I am extremely satisfied with the included lens and camera.

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Date Reviewed:  04/11/2008
  • LoriAnnBerry27
  • Member Since:
    Apr 2008

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Strengths: Everything
Weaknesses: none
Summary: LOVE IT. LOVE IT. My first DSLR and I have had so much fun. Check out my pics. The more I use the more I learn!

Definitely worth the money!

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Date Reviewed:  01/03/2008
  • darbetello
  • from MI
  • Member Since:
    Dec 2004

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    Reviews
    Product Experience:
    30 Days
Strengths: Solid construction, menus easy to navigate, great quality photos, excellent battery life
Weaknesses: none that I have found
Summary: After tons of research, both online and in stores, we bought this camera for our trip to Hawaii, and as an entry level SLR to start an art photography business. After considering the Canon 5D, we settled on this one because of the comparable featured with the lower price tag. We couldn't be more pleased with our choice. The menus and options are so easy to navigate, we were able to use it right out of the box. But the more we learn about the functions and features, the more powerful and versatile we find this camera.

The body is sturdy and held up to all the environments we put it through in Hawaii, including rain forests, beaches and zodiac raft rides. The grip is comfortable and the controls are always within easy reach, with many of the most commonly used easily accessed by external buttons without having to navigate menus.

The 17-85mm lens was quick and responsive with a smooth focus. The quality of the images we were able to get still amazes us. I was a little hesitant about getting the EF-S lens, but wanted a good landscape and architecture lens. We have been thrilled with its quality, versatility and speed.

Bottom line . . . this is our first DSLR camera and it has turned out to be the best purchase we could have made.

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