Nikon D500 Vs D850: Ultimate DSLR Showdown for Photographers

Choosing between the Nikon D500 and the Nikon D850 can be tough. Both cameras have unique strengths and appeal to different types of photographers.

Comparing the Nikon D500 and D850 helps you make an informed decision. The D500 is often praised for its speed and performance in wildlife and sports photography. Meanwhile, the D850 is known for its high resolution and versatility, making it a top choice for studio and landscape photographers.

Understanding the key differences between these two models can guide you in choosing the right camera for your needs. This comparison will cover essential features, performance, and value, helping you pick the best Nikon camera for your photography style.

Key Features

When comparing the Nikon D500 and D850, understanding their key features can help you decide which camera fits your needs best. Below, we break down the critical aspects of each camera, including sensor and resolution and autofocus system.

Sensor And Resolution

The sensor and resolution are crucial for any camera. They impact the quality and detail of your images.

Feature	Nikon D500	Nikon D850
Sensor	APS-C (DX)	Full Frame (FX)
Resolution	20.9 MP	45.7 MP

The Nikon D500 has a 20.9 MP DX-format sensor. It is ideal for sports and wildlife photography. The smaller sensor allows for a more compact camera body.

The Nikon D850, with its 45.7 MP full-frame sensor, offers higher resolution. This makes it perfect for landscape, studio, and portrait photography. The larger sensor captures more light, providing better image quality.

Autofocus System

The autofocus system determines how quickly and accurately the camera can focus on a subject.

• Nikon D500: 153 AF points, 99 cross-type sensors
• Nikon D850: 153 AF points, 99 cross-type sensors

Both cameras offer 153 AF points, with 99 being cross-type sensors. This ensures fast and accurate focus, even in low light. The D500’s autofocus system is designed for action photography. It tracks fast-moving subjects with ease.

The D850’s autofocus system is versatile and works well in various situations. It is great for capturing detailed shots in different environments.

In summary, both cameras have excellent autofocus systems. Your choice depends on your specific needs and photography style.

Build And Design

When choosing between the Nikon D500 and the D850, one of the first things to consider is their build and design. Both cameras are known for their robust construction and user-friendly design. This section will dive into the key aspects of their build and design, helping you to better understand the differences and decide which one suits your needs best.

Body Construction

The Nikon D500 features a magnesium alloy body, offering durability and a lightweight feel. This makes it ideal for photographers who need to carry their gear for long periods. The camera is also fully weather-sealed, protecting it from dust and moisture.

The Nikon D850, on the other hand, also boasts a magnesium alloy construction but with a more substantial build. It is slightly heavier, providing a more stable feel in hand. Like the D500, it is weather-sealed, ensuring reliability in harsh conditions.

Ergonomics And Handling

Both cameras excel in ergonomics, but there are differences. The Nikon D500 offers a deep grip that fits comfortably in the hand. The button layout is intuitive, allowing easy access to frequently used settings. This design is particularly beneficial for action and sports photographers who need quick adjustments.

The Nikon D850 also provides excellent ergonomics with a slightly larger grip. This can be more comfortable for those with larger hands. The D850 features a tilting touchscreen, adding convenience for shooting at various angles. The button layout is well thought out, making it easy to operate despite its larger size.

Feature	Nikon D500	Nikon D850
Body Material	Magnesium Alloy	Magnesium Alloy
Weight	760g	1005g
Weather-Sealing	Yes	Yes
Touchscreen	No	Yes
Grip Comfort	Deep and Comfortable	Deep and Larger

Performance

The Nikon D500 and D850 are both known for their exceptional performance. Each camera has unique strengths that cater to different photography needs. In this section, we will explore their performance in detail.

Speed And Responsiveness

The Nikon D500 excels in speed and responsiveness. It can shoot at 10 frames per second. This makes it ideal for action photography. The D850, on the other hand, offers 7 frames per second. While this is slower, it still performs well in most scenarios. The D850 also features a larger buffer. This allows more continuous shots before pausing.

Low Light Capabilities

The D500 performs admirably in low light. It has an ISO range of 100-51,200. This makes it suitable for various lighting conditions. The D850, however, has a broader ISO range of 64-25,600. This makes it a better choice for low-light photography. Both cameras have excellent noise reduction. This ensures clear and sharp images in dim light.

Image Quality

The Nikon D500 and D850 are both excellent cameras. Each offers unique features that impact image quality. This section will explore their color accuracy and dynamic range. Understanding these features can help you choose the right camera for your needs.

Color Accuracy

Color accuracy is crucial for photographers. The Nikon D500 and D850 both excel in this area, but there are differences.

• Nikon D500: Known for its vibrant colors. It produces images with rich and deep hues. Ideal for action shots and wildlife photography.
• Nikon D850: Offers more natural and true-to-life colors. It captures subtle tones and shades. Preferred for portrait and landscape photography.

The D500 tends to exaggerate colors slightly. This can be visually appealing in many scenarios. The D850, on the other hand, aims for accuracy. It delivers colors close to what the human eye perceives.

Dynamic Range

Dynamic range measures the camera’s ability to capture details in highlights and shadows. The Nikon D500 and D850 perform differently in this aspect.

Camera Model	Dynamic Range
Nikon D500	Good dynamic range. Handles high-contrast scenes well. Suitable for sports and action photography.
Nikon D850	Excellent dynamic range. Captures extreme detail in both highlights and shadows. Ideal for landscape and studio photography.

The D850’s dynamic range is superior. It provides greater flexibility in post-processing. The D500 is no slouch, though. It performs admirably in various lighting conditions.

Choosing between the Nikon D500 and D850 depends on your needs. Both offer outstanding image quality, but excel in different areas. Consider what you value most: color accuracy or dynamic range.

Video Capabilities

The Nikon D500 and D850 are two powerful cameras. Both offer impressive video capabilities. This section will compare their video features. We will cover resolution options and frame rates.

Resolution Options

The Nikon D500 offers 4K UHD resolution. It records at 3840 x 2160 pixels. The D500 ensures high-quality video output. For Full HD, the D500 records at 1920 x 1080 pixels.

The Nikon D850 also supports 4K UHD resolution. It records at a higher 3840 x 2160 pixels. The D850 supports Full HD at 1920 x 1080 pixels. It also offers 8K time-lapse recording.

Frame Rates

The Nikon D500 supports various frame rates. For 4K UHD, it offers 30, 25, and 24 fps. For Full HD, it ranges from 60 to 24 fps.

The Nikon D850 provides flexible frame rates as well. For 4K UHD, it supports 30, 25, and 24 fps. In Full HD, it offers up to 120 fps for slow-motion effects.

Battery Life

Battery life is a key factor for photographers. Nikon D500 and D850 have different battery performances. Let’s explore these differences.

Usage Time

The Nikon D500 has a good battery life. You can take about 1,240 shots per charge. This is great for a full day of shooting. The battery in the D850 lasts even longer. You can capture around 1,840 images on a single charge. This is useful for long events or trips.

Charging Options

Both cameras offer flexible charging options. The Nikon D500 uses the EN-EL15 battery. This battery can be charged with a standard charger. You can also use an optional battery grip for extended use. The D850 uses the same EN-EL15 battery. It also supports the newer EN-EL15a. This battery offers better performance. You can charge the D850 via USB. This is convenient for on-the-go photographers.

Price And Value

Choosing between the Nikon D500 and the D850 can be challenging. Both cameras offer great features, but their prices differ. Understanding the price and value of each model can help you make an informed decision.

Cost Comparison

The Nikon D500 is generally more affordable than the Nikon D850. The D500 typically costs around $1,500, while the D850 is priced at approximately $3,000. This price difference is significant. It can be a deciding factor for many buyers.

Here is a quick comparison:

Camera Model	Price
Nikon D500	$1,500
Nikon D850	$3,000

What You Get For Your Money

Although the Nikon D850 is more expensive, it offers many advanced features. The D850 has a higher resolution sensor, better dynamic range, and improved low light performance. These features are ideal for professional photographers.

The Nikon D500, on the other hand, is a solid choice for hobbyists or semi-professionals. It offers a fast shooting speed and excellent autofocus system. The D500 is also lighter and more compact, making it easier to carry.

Here is a breakdown of what each camera offers:

• Nikon D500:
  • 20.9 MP DX sensor
  • 10 fps continuous shooting
  • 153-point autofocus system
  • ISO range of 100-51,200
• Nikon D850:
  • 45.7 MP FX sensor
  • 7 fps continuous shooting
  • 153-point autofocus system
  • ISO range of 64-25,600

Deciding between the Nikon D500 and D850 comes down to your needs. Consider your budget and the specific features you value most.

Pros And Cons

Choosing between the Nikon D500 and D850 can be challenging. Each camera has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding the pros and cons can help you make an informed decision. This section will highlight the advantages and drawbacks of both models.

D500 Advantages And Drawbacks

The Nikon D500 is a fantastic camera for action and wildlife photography. It has a fast shooting speed. You can capture 10 frames per second. This feature is ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects. The camera’s autofocus system is excellent. It includes 153 focus points. This ensures sharp and clear images. The D500 is also lightweight. It’s easy to carry around for long periods.

The camera has its drawbacks too. The D500 has a smaller sensor compared to the D850. This affects image quality in low light. The battery life is not the best. You might need a spare battery for long shoots. The camera lacks a built-in flash. This can be a limitation in some situations.

D850 Advantages And Drawbacks

The Nikon D850 is known for its impressive image quality. It has a 45.7-megapixel sensor. This ensures detailed and vibrant photos. The camera performs well in low light conditions. Its ISO range is extensive. The D850 also has a great dynamic range. This helps in capturing more details in shadows and highlights. The camera’s build quality is robust. It is weather-sealed for use in harsh conditions.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The D850 is heavier than the D500. Carrying it around can be tiring. The camera’s shooting speed is slower. It can capture 7 frames per second. This might not be ideal for fast action photography. The D850 is also more expensive. It might not fit everyone’s budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Main Differences Between Nikon D500 And D850?

The Nikon D500 is a DX-format camera while the D850 is an FX-format. The D850 offers higher resolution at 45. 7 megapixels compared to D500’s 20. 9 megapixels. Both excel in different photography genres.

Which Camera Has Better Image Quality, Nikon D500 Or D850?

The Nikon D850 has superior image quality with its 45. 7-megapixel sensor. The D500, with a 20. 9-megapixel sensor, is excellent but not as high in resolution. Both deliver excellent performance in their categories.

Is The Nikon D850 Worth The Extra Cost Over D500?

The Nikon D850 is worth the extra cost if you need high resolution and full-frame performance. The D500 is great for fast action and lower budget. Choose based on your specific needs and budget.

Which Is Better For Wildlife Photography, Nikon D500 Or D850?

The Nikon D500 is often preferred for wildlife photography. It has a crop sensor, which provides extra reach with lenses. Its fast shooting speed is ideal for capturing action. The D850 is also excellent, especially for detailed shots.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Nikon D500 and D850 depends on your needs. The D500 excels in speed and portability, great for action shots. The D850 offers higher resolution, perfect for detailed photography. Both cameras have their strengths. Consider what features matter most for your work.

Evaluate your budget and shooting style. Make an informed decision. Happy shooting!