Entry-level DSLR shootout

[ret]

The Sony view would be that an AF mode button is NOT necessary since most shooters would keep it at the default AF-A position or focus manually.
I would certainly NOT say that I am changing autofocus modes so frequently that an autofocus mode button would be useful. On the contrary, it would just get in the way.

Tegan

the point that he is making is that Sony's view is not spot on .... and how would it get in the way?

I don't see the location of the delete and playback as being an advantage for the Nikon D80 at all. If you are "frequently using" these buttons in the field, then you are wasting battery power and missing shots. The Sony has an automatic playback for a few seconds without any button pushing and that is certainly sufficient for checking out most shots. Moreover Sony views DISP or display information and menu as more important buttons in the field.

Tegan

But if battery life is a concern then surly the automatic playback function in Sony is likely to drain more battery than an easy option in Nikon to check when you need to playback!!! Moreover the automatic playback in Sony could turn out to be annoying