What would be a smaller alternative to a Nikon D40?

Question

I've enjoyed my Nikon D40 for a few months now, but it's simply too big to carry around practically. I'm looking for a smaller camera that will still give me excellent quality photographs. My spending limit is $400.

Any ideas?

Answer 1

I believe Olympus makes a smaller alternative, the E-410/420. It's really designed to be like an older SLR, which explains its much smaller size. The only catch is that Olympus uses the 4/3 system, which means more detail, but less dynamic range. If you can get over the "large" size of the D40, you'd be much better off. Otherwise, downgrade to the Olympus, or a point and shoot.

Answer 2

There is none .. the D40 is the smallest DSLR made.  If you buy a smaller camera it will be a P&S and have a sensor that is 15 times smaller than the D40 and it will have a fixed lens ... you can never exchange lenses ... better to just save the extra $70 and buy the D40 with 18-55 mm lens.

Answer 3

The D40 is about the smallest DSLR you can get.  To go smaller you'll have to go to a P&S.

Answer 4

The Olympus E-420 is the smallest DSLR made today. I have a E-520 and it is smaller than most DSLRs (Thanks to the 4/3 sensor). These cameras are smaller and lighter, so carrying them is not much of a problem. The E-420 with the pancack lens it comes with is as small as some compact cameras. Look at the review from dpreview.com below.