[Dabhand16]

Got to agree with Gavin here. It has been said many times and by many people (me included) that given two cameras of equal capability (yes , I know in this example it could be argued they are not absolutely equal) choose the one that feels better to hold and esiest to select and adjust the various controls and settings. When I was at this crossroad, I went for the Nikon. You might find the Canon is better for you.

It is true that you are buying into a system, but you also need to buy into a system you find comfortable to use. I'd let this factor decide which way you jump.

There is another otion you have not considered. You could get the 400D body and a different lens. The 18-55 Canon kit lens is not at the top of the tree in the lens world.