Nikon D500 Vs D850: Which Dslr Is Right For You? Compare Specs, Features, And Price To Make An Informed Decision
What To Know
- The D850, on the other hand, features a more modern design with a touchscreen LCD and a joystick for navigating menus and focus points.
- The Nikon D500 and D850 offer a wide range of features and functions that cater to the needs of professional photographers.
- The D850 has a slight edge in video quality, thanks to its higher resolution sensor and the ability to output 10-bit video.
In the world of professional photography, Nikon’s D500 and D850 DSLRs stand as two of the most popular and capable cameras available. Both offer stunning image quality, fast performance, and a wide range of features that make them ideal for a variety of shooting scenarios. But which one is the right choice for you? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll pit the Nikon D500 against the D850 and explore their key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Image Quality: Megapixels Matter, But Not Everything
The Nikon D500 boasts a 20.9-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the D850 packs a whopping 45.7-megapixel CMOS sensor. At first glance, the D850 seems to have a clear advantage in terms of resolution. However, megapixels aren’t the only factor that determines image quality. The D500’s sensor is designed for speed and low-light performance, while the D850’s sensor is optimized for high-resolution images.
In real-world shooting, the D500 delivers excellent image quality, even in challenging lighting conditions. Its images are sharp, detailed, and have a wide dynamic range. The D850, on the other hand, produces stunningly detailed images with exceptional color reproduction. However, its higher resolution can also lead to larger file sizes and increased noise at high ISO settings.
Speed and Performance: Capturing the Decisive Moment
The Nikon D500 is a speed demon, capable of shooting up to 10 frames per second (FPS) with autofocus and autoexposure. This makes it an ideal choice for sports, wildlife, and other fast-paced photography genres. The D850, while not as fast as the D500, still offers a respectable 7 FPS continuous shooting speed. However, its higher resolution sensor means that it takes longer to clear the buffer, which can be a limiting factor in certain situations.
In terms of autofocus, both cameras feature Nikon’s excellent Multi-CAM 20K autofocus system, which provides fast and accurate focusing in a variety of conditions. The D500 has a slight edge in low-light autofocus, thanks to its more sensitive sensor. However, the D850’s higher resolution sensor allows it to achieve more precise focus, especially when shooting with telephoto lenses.
Build Quality and Ergonomics: In the Hands of Professionals
Both the Nikon D500 and D850 are built like tanks, with weather-sealed bodies that can withstand the rigors of professional use. They feature robust magnesium alloy construction and are designed to perform in harsh environments. However, the D850 has a slightly larger and heavier body than the D500, which some photographers may find less comfortable to handle.
In terms of ergonomics, both cameras offer a comfortable grip and well-placed controls that make them easy to operate. The D500 has a more traditional DSLR layout, with a dedicated mode dial and control wheels. The D850, on the other hand, features a more modern design with a touchscreen LCD and a joystick for navigating menus and focus points.
Features and Functionality: Unlocking Creative Potential
The Nikon D500 and D850 offer a wide range of features and functions that cater to the needs of professional photographers. Both cameras have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to transfer images wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet. They also feature a variety of creative shooting modes, including time-lapse, HDR, and panorama.
The D500 has a built-in flash, while the D850 does not. However, both cameras have a hot shoe mount for attaching an external flash unit. The D850 also has a built-in intervalometer, which allows you to take time-lapse sequences automatically.
Video Capabilities: Beyond Stills
Both the Nikon D500 and D850 offer impressive video capabilities, making them suitable for videographers as well as photographers. They can both record 4K UHD video at 30 FPS and Full HD video at up to 120 FPS. The D850 has a slight edge in video quality, thanks to its higher resolution sensor and the ability to output 10-bit video.
Price and Value: Weighing the Investment
The Nikon D500 is currently priced at around $1,500, while the D850 retails for around $3,000. This significant price difference reflects the D850’s higher resolution sensor, faster continuous shooting speed, and more advanced video capabilities.
Whether the D850 is worth the extra investment depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re a professional photographer who demands the highest image quality and performance, the D850 is the clear choice. However, if you’re a hobbyist or enthusiast photographer who values speed, low-light performance, and a more compact body, the D500 is an excellent option.
The Verdict: Finding Your Perfect Match
So, which camera is the right choice for you, the Nikon D500 or the D850? Ultimately, the best camera is the one that meets your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a fast, versatile DSLR that excels in low-light conditions, the D500 is a great choice. If you prioritize high-resolution images and advanced video capabilities, the D850 is the way to go.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which camera has better low-light performance, the D500 or the D850?
A: The D500 has a slight edge in low-light performance, thanks to its more sensitive sensor.
Q: Which camera is better for sports and wildlife photography?
A: The D500 is the better choice for sports and wildlife photography, thanks to its faster continuous shooting speed and more compact body.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The D850 has a slight edge in video recording, thanks to its higher resolution sensor and the ability to output 10-bit video.
