Canon Eos 90d Vs Nikon D500: Which Camera Reigns Supreme For Wildlife Photography?
What To Know
- The Canon EOS 90D can capture up to 10 frames per second (FPS) with continuous autofocus, while the Nikon D500 boasts an impressive 10 FPS with full-time autofocus.
- Both cameras offer deep buffer depths, allowing you to capture a substantial number of images in a burst before the camera slows down.
- The EOS 90D can capture up to 40 RAW images or 120 JPEGs in a single burst, while the D500 can capture up to 200 RAW images or 200 JPEGs.
The Canon EOS 90D and Nikon D500 are two popular DSLR cameras among wildlife and sports photographers. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, making it challenging to choose between them. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of these cameras, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Image Quality:
Resolution and Sensor Size:
The Canon EOS 90D boasts a 32.5MP APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D500 features a 20.9MP DX-format CMOS sensor. Despite the difference in resolution, both cameras produce excellent image quality with sharp details and vibrant colors. However, the EOS 90D’s higher resolution allows for more cropping flexibility and larger prints.
Low-Light Performance:
Both cameras perform admirably in low-light conditions, thanks to their wide ISO ranges. The EOS 90D has a native ISO range of 100-25600, expandable to 51200, while the D500’s native ISO range is 100-51200, expandable to 1640000. In practical terms, both cameras can capture usable images in dimly lit environments, although the D500 may have a slight edge in extreme low-light situations.
Autofocus System:
Speed and Accuracy:
The Canon EOS 90D’s autofocus system employs 45 cross-type AF points, while the Nikon D500 boasts 153 autofocus points, including 99 cross-type points. Both cameras offer fast and accurate autofocus performance, enabling you to capture fast-moving subjects with ease. The D500’s more extensive AF coverage and higher density of cross-type points may provide an advantage in challenging lighting conditions or when tracking erratic movements.
Subject Tracking:
The Canon EOS 90D’s Intelligent Tracking and Recognition (iTR) AF system excels at tracking moving subjects, utilizing deep learning technology to recognize and maintain focus on faces, eyes, and even animals. The Nikon D500’s 3D Tracking mode also performs well in tracking moving subjects, although it may require more manual fine-tuning.
Burst Shooting and Buffer Depth:
Speed and Capacity:
The Canon EOS 90D can capture up to 10 frames per second (FPS) with continuous autofocus, while the Nikon D500 boasts an impressive 10 FPS with full-time autofocus. Both cameras offer deep buffer depths, allowing you to capture a substantial number of images in a burst before the camera slows down. The EOS 90D can capture up to 40 RAW images or 120 JPEGs in a single burst, while the D500 can capture up to 200 RAW images or 200 JPEGs.
Video Capabilities:
Resolution and Frame Rates:
The Canon EOS 90D and Nikon D500 both offer 4K video recording capabilities. The EOS 90D can record 4K UHD video at 30 FPS, while the D500 can record 4K UHD video at 24, 25, or 30 FPS. Both cameras also offer Full HD video recording at up to 120 FPS, allowing for slow-motion capture.
Autofocus and Image Stabilization:
The Canon EOS 90D utilizes Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth and accurate autofocus during video recording. The Nikon D500, on the other hand, employs a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase-detection and contrast-detection AF. Both cameras offer in-body image stabilization to help reduce camera shake and ensure stable video footage.
Build Quality and Ergonomics:
Durability and Weather Sealing:
The Canon EOS 90D features a magnesium alloy body with weather sealing, making it resistant to dust and moisture. The Nikon D500 also boasts a magnesium alloy body with extensive weather sealing, ensuring reliable performance in challenging weather conditions.
Handling and Controls:
The Canon EOS 90D has a comfortable grip and well-positioned controls, making it easy to operate even with larger lenses. The Nikon D500 offers a similar level of comfort and ergonomics, with a deep grip and logically placed controls. Both cameras feature customizable buttons and dials, allowing you to personalize the camera’s settings to suit your shooting style.
Connectivity and Sharing:
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth:
Both the Canon EOS 90D and Nikon D500 offer built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling wireless image transfer, remote camera control, and smartphone connectivity. The EOS 90D also supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for maintaining a constant connection with your smartphone, even when the camera is turned off.
