Nikon’s D80 is big brother to its entry level D40 Digital SLR (D-SLR), boasting a 10 megapixel resolution over its sibling’s six.

The target audience is more amateur enthusiast than doting dad, but nevertheless Nikon has delivered a camera that is as easy to use as it is highly specified, which should serve it well against direct competitors in Sony’s Alpha 100, Canon’s EOS 400D and Pentax’s K100D.

It further offers an incentive for Nikon film users to swap to digital by featuring a lens mount compatible with a wide range of AF and DX lenses.

Other key features include a new, faster processing chip, an 11-area auto focus system to ensure sharp images even when your subject isn’t centre of frame, auto light sensitivity up to ISO1600, pop-up flash, continuous shooting of three frames per second up to 100 JPEGs (RAW is also an option), and a 2.5in screen with which to review them. A second LCD window up top displays essential information including battery life, shots remaining and resolution selected.

As you’d expect from Nikon, the D80's build quality is high and, with rechargeable battery inserted and 18-70mm kit lens attached, the camera has a nice rugged, solid feel to it when gripped. Like the Nikon D40, it features a mode wheel with familiar icons for shooting subjects and scenes, allowing anyone to point-and-shoot from the off. You’ll have to supply your own SD storage card, however.

Flicking the on/off switch handily encircling the shutter button, you’re ready to take your first photo in an instant (officially 0.18 seconds) while any shutter delay is imperceptible.

Generally the D80 is capable of excellent results, with images well exposed, sharp and colourful. Occasionally there is some softness due to camera shake at the extreme telephoto end of the zoom, particularly under dull conditions, but it’s not pronounced.

Though non-Nikon converts are looking at shelling out the best part of £900 for a body and lens, you’ll find better deals with minimal shopping around. For those who want to witness a giant leap in their photography from a small amount of effort, the D80 has to be a leading contender.

Also consider
Sony Alpha 100
The consumer electronics giant’s digital-SLR debut

Canon EOS 400D
The successor to the EOS 350D has arrived

Pentax K100D
Budget 6-megapixel digital SLR gives versatile performance

Nikon D40
Nikon upgrades its entry level digital SLR

Fujifilm Finepix S6500fd
An upmarket digital camera that picks out faces

All digital camera reviews