(Oct 29, 2009)
Lori Grunin
Senior Editor
These models live in a sort of limbo: they offer more flexibility, customization, and generally better performance than their cheaper siblings--for a higher price tag, of course. However, they tend to lack the flexibility, durability, and performance needed by most professional photographers. Also, not all newbies will be satisfied with a cheap model, and not all pros require the machine-gun speed of an expensive one. Whether you're ready to step up from your first SLR or need a second body to supplement your pro camera, these models are the ones to choose from.
Nikon D90 (with 18-105mm lens)
Like the D80 before it, the Nikon D90 delivers an excellent dSLR for the money.
Price: $1,059.95 - $1,299.00 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 2, 2008
Excellent
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Olympus E-30 (body only)
A great general-purpose dSLR, the Olympus E-30 offers an attractive alternative for advanced shooters not yet wedded to a system.
Price: $899.00 - $999.99 (check prices)
Review date: Feb 25, 2009
Very good
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Canon EOS 50D (with 28-135mm lens)
A very good midrange dSLR, the Canon EOS 50D is a compelling--but not necessarily a must-have--choice for Canon upgraders.
Price: $1,149.00 - $1,599.00 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 20, 2008
Very good
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Canon EOS 40D (body only)
Great photo quality and excellent continuous-shooting performance are just two of the Canon EOS 40D's many attractions in the digital camera marketplace.
Price: $1,119.95 (check prices)
Review date: Sep 20, 2007
Very good
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Nikon D200
An excellent midrange digital SLR, the D200 has given way to its even better successor, the D300. However, it remains a great choice if you can find it at a good price.
Price: $1,228.95 (check prices)
Review date: Feb 13, 2006
Very good
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Sony Alpha DSLR-A700 (with 18mm-70mm lens)
A top-of-the-line amateur digital SLR camera, the Sony Alpha DSLR-A700 will delight Konica Minolta diehards and makes a great choice if you don't already have a stake in other lens systems.
Price: $799.93 - $1,098.97 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 10, 2007
Very good
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Pentax K20D (body only)
Pentax's 14MP K20D is a great choice for a midlevel SLR and offers a lot of bang for the buck.
Price: $799.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 28, 2008
Very good
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