The 5 Best SLR Cameras

The feature-packed Canon EOS 40D produces great images. Its price puts it within reach of photo enthusiasts and professionals alike. If you're graduating from a Rebel-series digital SLR, this is a great step-up model whose versatility will grow along with you. And if you're an advanced shooter looking for something smaller and less costly than Canon's top-tier cameras (the 1D and 5D series), the 40D is perfect. Check Latest Prices

The big, heavy, rugged Olympus E3 has extensive advanced controls, fast burst-shooting speed, and a quick autofocus. But you'll need plenty of arm strength to lug this baby once you've added a lens to the camera body. Check Latest Prices

The Nikon D300 is not a camera to pick up and run with. Its high resolution, exceptional flexibility, and excellent exposure accuracy make the effort of working through a longish learning stage worthwhile. The D300 should fare well against its two strongest competitors, Sony's Alpha 700 and Olympus's E3. Check Latest Prices

With its sharp, 12-megapixel imaging and with more exposure controls than most photographers will likely ever use, the beefy and finely designed Sony Alpha DSLR-A700 rises to nearly professional-level photography, making it well worth its $1900 price tag. Its main limitation is its relatively narrow range of available lenses and accessories. Check Latest Prices