What should I upgrade to?

[filemanager]

I currently have a D80

From what I've been told, there are 3 Nikon lines... the "beginner" line (D60), the "intermediate" line (D80 or now, D90), and the "Professional" line

I'm thinking about getting something from the "professional" line, but all these model numbers are confusing!

I don't use any of the programmable settings, so as long as it has the M, A, S and ideally the "Auto" (for my husband), then that would be good

[OsmosisStudios]

Basically, you've got 3 groups now:
D#
D###
D####
Which are, with older models included:
D#: Pro series (the D1, D2h/D2x/D2xs, D3, D3x, D3s)
D###: Semi-pro/pro (D100, D200, D300, D300s, D700)
D####: Beginner/Amateur (D3000, D3100, D5000.)

NIkon has gone and confused things. In this, you should be able to slot in the D40 and D60 into the D#### section, and the D50, D70, D80, D90 and D7000 would go into a category between the triple- and quadruple-digit sections.

If you've got a D80, your step up is the D300s right now. If you dont need it right away, wait until the announced "D400" in 2011. That being said, the D300s is no slouch and will be better than your D80 as it stands (I know, I did exactly that a few months ago).

[kirbinster]

I think the D7000 when it comes out next month will offer better value than the D300s. While they claim it is a replacement for the D90, it will probably have better image quality than the D300s.

[filemanager]

What about the D300 vs. D700 vs. the upcoming D400?

[candleman]

depends on your budget... you could buy two D7000's for the price of a D700, and have a chunk of change left over.

D300s is a logical steop.. its an incredible camera and a big change from a D80.
I also just made that move a few months back.

D7000 looks to be quite good, still waiting on an indepth image quality review..

and if you can wait... (possibly up to a year) the D400 will be the baby to go for.

[sk66]

Why are you thinking of upgrading? Upgrading bodies is almost a waste of money. Every time I upgrade a new/better model is instantly released and my photography doesn't really improve much anyways. If there is something you need (want) and can justify the expense, then OK....

FWIW, I don't think the move to FF is a good choice for most hobbyist .