Just like to D40 before it, the Nikon D40x represent is a good and well-priced DSLR. Compared to other entry-level DSLR cameras, the Nikon D40x performs generally well. It is particularly fast and responsive, with excellent focus-speed, short shutter-lag and unlimited continuous drive. Image quality is slightly below average, with little image noise but occasional moire and strongly over-saturated colors. Although noise increases slowly with ISO, there is a noticeable increase in softness as ISO increases. With an adequate lens, image sharpness is excellent at low-ISO. Under artificial light, the automatic white-balance performs poorly, just like most other DSLR cameras.

The Nikon D40x is mostly lacking in terms of features. There is no depth-of-field preview, no bracketing feature and no support for a large number of Nikon lenses. Particularly, the lack of focus motor inside the camera currently precludes the use of most prime lenses.

Overall, the D40x is a limited DSLR which produces images of reasonable quality for its price. From the competition, the Canon Rebel XTi shows better image quality but not as good handling. The Pentax K10D is a superior camera in many ways but costs considerably more. Closer to the D40x is the excellent Sony Alpha A100 which features in-body stabilization and better support for legacy lenses (from Konica-Minolta).

 

The most interesting competition for the Nikon D40x comes from the 6 megapixels Pentax K100D and its near-twin, the K100D Super. These cameras produce lower-noise images with greater color accuracy and no moire problems. Plus they have many more features and conveniently use AA batteries. They also supports a much greater legacy of lenses and provides them all with stabilization thanks to a built-in mechanism.