The first and main misconception of newcomers to the world of photography is that they are taken to find the answer to this question. And there is no right answer for this. Both brands play in the big leagues. Unlike competitors, for example, Panasonic or Samsung, they are not scattered across numerous product groups, focus on photo equipment and, to a lesser extent, video. However in the case of Canon, this statement is not entirely however the company is also engaged in the production of printers and MFPs. But anyway, its product range is relatively narrow.

All the resources of these large and old companies are focused on improving their devices, as well as getting ahead of rivals in quality and technology. They are symmetrical in the main camera categories, have the most extensive fleets of optics and accessories, and have extensive third-party support for their products. So to determine which brand is better, in principle, it is impossible. But on the other hand, it is possible to single out the main criteria and use them to compare certain models that are in close price groups.

class. There are very inexpensive models for amateurs, cameras for beginner photographers, semi-professional and professional devices. And both Canon and Nikon: 650D or D5200, 6D or D600. As for the usual "soap dishes", it should be noted that Canon is able to offer a more interesting range.

If the interest in choosing the best brand has a practical property, then it is worth deciding on the criteria for evaluating cameras. And take into account one important point. Photographic technique has a systemic character. That is, by choosing one brand, you will eventually acquire compatible lenses and accessories, and changing course will become quite a costly affair. This is why most amateur photographers, having once made the choice of “Canon or Nikon”, remain true to their decision for many years. Professionals who make a living from photography can afford to migrate, but for them it is quite a difficult process.

So, the main factor is the acceptable low-cost. Actual amateur cameras Canon EOS 1100D and Nikon D3100 in “carcass” (body) configurations, that is, without lenses, start at $330. For poor complete zoom lenses, you will have to pay another $50. But for this money you will get a camera without potential, with photo quality at the level of a good soap dish, but with obvious drawbacks of a DSLR — size and weight. Whether it's Canon or Nikon, both devices are sub-optimal. I would recommend starting from the well-established Canon 650D or Nikon D5200 models with a price of $600. But to this expense item, you must definitely add the cost of lenses that suit you specifically, a flash if necessary, and additional accessories.

But the characteristics are not so simple. Even in the “confident hobbyist” category alone, Canon and Nikon cameras have many differences. The price of the Canon 650D or Nikon D5200 models has almost leveled off now, but initially Nikon is more expensive. Nikon has a slightly larger matrix and a significantly higher megapixel value — 24 versus 18 for Canon. In fact, this is not such an important parameter, but if you need to print photos in a large format, the resolution will not be superfluous. But much more important is the fact that Canon has noisier matrices. But the cameras of this company are able to shoot video better.

Canon's viewfinder produces a slightly better picture and is sensitive to touch, while the competitor's is not. The cases are similar, but have a different arrangement of auxiliary elements. Both layouts are good, but one personally will certainly seem more successful to you. The image quality is generally comparable, but still the Nikon model wins a little. Especially in capable hands. But if we touch on the issue of optics, then if we have all the necessary lenses from the native brand for both cameras, optics for Canon are a little cheaper on our market.

If you take a pair of Canon 650D and Nikon D5200, then the palm is worth give to the Nikon product. Although many Canon users will certainly find strong counter-arguments. And in comparison with other symmetrical models, the second manufacturer may have more advantages. It is often argued in favor of Nikon that it is the products of this company that are used by professional photographers whose work is published in leading publishing houses. However, how serious is such an argument for a user who does not plan to become a professional, but just wants to enjoy photography.

Summing up, to the question “Canon or Nikon?” you will most likely have to answer only once — at the time of purchase of the first SLR camera. Moreover, excellent devices will certainly participate in the comparison, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. So it is with manufacturers — in some ways one is stronger, in some ways the advantage of the second. But both are the best photographs on the market, both are purebred Japanese, both have decades of perfection in technique and technology behind them.