... In view of the few differences between the D40x and the D40, one wonders why Nikon did not release the D40x in the first place. While there is little doubt that purchasers of the D40x will appreciate the increase in resolution, when images captured with the D40 and D40x are compared, it is difficult to detect any qualitative differences. ..."

... The Nikon D40x is a gem. Consumers should want one, intermediate photographers should want one, and pros would do well to carry one too. The Nikon D40x is one of the finest family cameras on the market made even better than its predecessor, which is a tall order."

The D40x retains all the things that are likeable about the D40 and gives you a 10mp sensor that produces images that are arguably slightly better than the D80 can produce (at least for JPEG files). You pay for that extra resolution two ways: extra dollars up front and reduced flash flexibility due to the all-mechanical shutter. I don't expect to use my D80 much any more with the D40x being smaller and lighter. But someone with older AF lenses or who needs one of the D80's additional features might choose differently."

In the D40x Nikon may finally have got the entry-level DSLR that can give Canon a run for its money while holding off Sony's advance. It is, by an admittedly narrow margin, a better camera than the EOS 400D in many respects, including the crucial area of overall image quality. It is easy to use, has Nikon’s traditional fantastic build quality, and performs superbly well. ..."

... the D40X really is just as good as the D40, with the added benefit of a little bit more resolution and slightly faster continuous shooting. But is it enough to take the pole position as the ultimate compact ten megapixel DSLR? That's harder to say, image quality-wise it's a dead heat with the EOS 400D (except at high sensitivities); it's quicker and more comfortable to use, but very slightly less featured, especially if you consider lens compatibility. ..."

... the D40x lacks some of the nice features of other cameras in this class, such as dust reduction, depth-of-field preview, and more than 3 focus points. Next, due to the design of its sensor, the camera has a slower flash sync speed than its predecessor, though I doubt that the typical D40x buyer would notice. ..."

The D40x may have a better kit lens, but the Canon 400D / XTi has far superior auto focus, anti-dust features, depth-of-field previews, greater support for older lenses and comes with RAW processing software not to mention a TV cable. Then there’s the Sony A100 which again costs roughly the same and features built-in anti-shake facilities. Both it and the Canon are technically superior and better-featured cameras. ..."

... Ultimately the Nikon D40x provides almost everything that most photographers need in a camera (digital or otherwise), while delivering great ease of use, responsive performance and very impressive image quality. If you need the extra resolution, then by all means pick the D40x, but it does come at a significantly higher price than the D40 (which is still available). ..."