Nikon D500 Vs. D850 For Wildlife: Which Camera Reigns Supreme?

The world of wildlife photography is a thrilling adventure that requires the perfect blend of skill, patience, and the right equipment. Among photographers, the Nikon D500 and D850 stand out as two exceptional cameras renowned for their capabilities in capturing breathtaking wildlife images. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of these two remarkable cameras, comparing their features and performance to help you make an informed decision about which one reigns supreme for wildlife photography.

Image Quality:

1. Sensor Resolution:

• D500: 20.9MP DX-format CMOS sensor
• D850: 45.7MP FX-format CMOS sensor

The D850’s higher resolution sensor provides more detail and flexibility for cropping and large prints. However, the D500’s DX-format sensor offers a narrower field of view, making it ideal for capturing close-ups of wildlife subjects.

2. Dynamic Range:

• D500: 14.3 stops
• D850: 15.3 stops

The D850’s wider dynamic range allows for better preservation of highlight and shadow details, resulting in more vibrant and realistic images, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

3. Low-Light Performance:

• D500: Native ISO range of 100-51200, expandable to 1640000
• D850: Native ISO range of 64-25600, expandable to 32-102400

Both cameras excel in low-light conditions, but the D500 has a slight edge due to its higher maximum native ISO. This advantage enables you to shoot at faster shutter speeds, minimizing camera shake and subject blur.

Autofocus and Tracking:

1. Autofocus System:

• D500: 153-point AF system, 55 cross-type points
• D850: 153-point AF system, 99 cross-type points

Both cameras boast impressive autofocus systems, but the D850’s 99 cross-type points provide more precise and consistent focus, particularly in low-light conditions.

2. Subject Tracking:

• D500: Advanced 3D tracking with Group-Area AF
• D850: Advanced 3D tracking with Group-Area AF and 3D-Tracking AF

The D850’s 3D-Tracking AF excels in tracking fast-moving subjects, making it ideal for capturing birds in flight or running animals.

Burst Shooting and Buffer Depth:

1. Burst Shooting Speed:

• D500: Up to 10 fps
• D850: Up to 9 fps

The D500’s faster burst shooting speed gives you a better chance of capturing the perfect moment, especially when photographing fast-moving wildlife.

2. Buffer Depth:

• D500: 200 RAW images, 200 JPEG images
• D850: 51 RAW images, 170 JPEG images

The D500’s larger buffer depth allows you to shoot longer bursts of images before the camera’s buffer fills up, making it ideal for capturing sequences of action.

Build and Ergonomics:

1. Body Construction:

• D500: Magnesium alloy body with weather sealing
• D850: Magnesium alloy body with weather sealing

Both cameras feature durable magnesium alloy bodies and are weather-sealed, making them suitable for use in challenging outdoor conditions.

2. Weight and Size:

• D500: 860g (1.9 lbs) with battery and memory card
• D850: 1005g (2.2 lbs) with battery and memory card

The D500 is lighter and more compact than the D850, making it easier to carry and handle during extended wildlife photography sessions.

Video Capabilities:

1. Video Resolution:

• D500: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p
• D850: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p

Both cameras offer 4K UHD video recording, providing stunning image quality for wildlife videography.

2. Slow-Motion Video:

• D500: 120 fps at 1080p
• D850: 120 fps at 1080p

Both cameras offer slow-motion video recording, allowing you to capture stunning footage of wildlife in motion.

Price:

• D500: Approximately $1,500 (body only)
• D850: Approximately $3,000 (body only)

The D500 is more affordable than the D850, making it a more budget-friendly option for wildlife photographers.

“Which Beast Reigns Supreme?” – The Ultimate Verdict:

The Nikon D500 and D850 are both exceptional cameras capable of producing stunning wildlife images. However, each camera has its strengths and weaknesses, catering to different needs and preferences.

If you prioritize speed, burst shooting, and low-light performance, the D500 is the clear choice. Its faster burst shooting speed, larger buffer depth, and higher maximum native ISO make it ideal for capturing fast-moving wildlife and action sequences.

On the other hand, if you prioritize image quality, resolution, and dynamic range, the D850 is the superior option. Its higher resolution sensor, wider dynamic range, and more precise autofocus system make it the ideal choice for capturing detailed and vibrant wildlife images, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Ultimately, the best camera for wildlife photography depends on your individual needs and shooting style. Consider the factors discussed in this guide and evaluate which camera aligns best with your requirements. Both the Nikon D500 and D850 are exceptional tools that will elevate your wildlife photography to new heights.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. Q: Which camera is better for bird photography, the D500 or D850?

• A: The D500’s faster burst shooting speed and lighter weight make it a better choice for bird photography, especially when capturing fast-moving birds in flight.

2. Q: Can I use the same lenses on both the D500 and D850?

• A: Yes, you can use the same Nikon F-mount lenses on both cameras. However, DX-format lenses will have a narrower field of view on the D850 due to its larger sensor.

3. Q: Which camera has better battery life?

• A: The D850 has better battery life than the D500, allowing you to shoot for longer periods without needing to change batteries.