Does anyone have experience with either of these cameras? I am needing a good digital. But do not have $1000 + to spend on a great one. These seem to be in my budget.

I have used both, and prefer the 8700, despite the 8800 having a longer zoom and an image stabilizer.

The 8800 is extremely slow. Once you have taken a photo, it takes ages for it to be ready for another one, if set on the highest resolution.

Have a look at the Sony 828, in my mind, it is a much better camera than either of the Nikons.