I was faced with a similar decision not too awful long ago! I wanted the Canon 20D, it didn't matter to me because I had no lenses that were compatible to start with. The 20D is an 8 megapixel and the D70 is a 6.3 megapixel. I went with the Nikon D70 because I was buying the kit, and the lens that comes with the kit is far superior to the lens that comes with 20D as a kit. I love my D70 and wouldn't trade it for the world, but to be politically correct I am thinking on purchasing a 20D, but not with that kit lens. I will pay a few hundred more and get the upgrade. The kit lens is the same one they give you with the Digital Rebel kit and may have a street value of $50 or $70. While the lens that you get with the Nikon is a quality piece of glass that is worth $300 maybe more (It is ED glass). The Nikon Canon debate is one that will probably continue forever. It is like the debate between Ford and Chevrolet. Both are awesome, but everyone has an opinion about which is better. Go try them out! Brenda :)