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Nikon D780 vs D500: Which one should you buy?

The Nikon D780 boasts better hybrid autofocus, faster burst shooting, higher resolution LCD screen, and higher max ISO compared to the D500. The Nikon D780 and the D500 are two excellent choices for photographers interested in the Nikon brand.

The D500, released in 2016, is the more affordable option, while the D780, released in 2020, is a newer and more feature-rich camera. While both cameras can yield stunning image quality, D780 features some upgraded technology, including better hybrid autofocus, faster burst shooting, higher resolution LCD screen, and higher max ISO.

In comparison, the D500 focuses more on action and sports photography with its high frame rate and superior autofocus system. Overall, the D780 will be a better option for photographers that need more modern features, while the D500 will excel at capturing fast-moving subjects.

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Overview Of Nikon D780 And D500

The Nikon D780 has a higher image resolution and longer battery life than the D500, which has a higher maximum shutter speed and more cross type focus points. Both cameras have similar features, but the D780 may be better for still photography while the D500 is ideal for fast-paced action.

Subheading	Overview of Nikon D780 and D500
Launch	The Nikon D780 was launched in January 2020, while the Nikon D500 was launched in January 2016. The D780 is the newer model and comes with improved features and technology updates.
Sensor	Both the D780 and D500 come with APS-C sized sensors. The D780 comes with a 24.5-megapixel sensor, while the D500 comes with a 20.9-megapixel sensor. This means that the D780 has a slight advantage in terms of resolution.
Image	Both cameras come with Nikon’s Expeed 6 image processor, which results in great image quality and fast processing speeds.
Optics & Focus	The D780 features many of the same optics and focus capabilities as the D500. Both cameras come with a 153-point autofocus system and 99 cross-type points, which make them great choices for action and sports photography.
Screen	The D780 comes with a tilting touchscreen LCD, which makes it easier to take photos and videos from different angles. The D500, on the other hand, comes with a fixed 3.2-inch LCD screen.
Viewfinder	Both cameras come with good quality optical viewfinders. The D780 has a slightly larger viewfinder with 0.7x magnification compared to the D500’s 0.67x magnification.
Photography Features	The D780 and D500 come with many advanced photography features, including bracketing, stacking, and multiple focus modes. The D780 also has a new dedicated AF engine for better low light AF performance and a highlight-weighted metering mode.
Videography Features	The D780 is a better choice for videographers as it has more advanced video features, including 4K UHD video recording and better low light performance. However, the D500 still comes with good video capabilities, with support for 4K UHD at 30p and full HD at 60p.
Storage	The D780 comes with dual SD card slots, while the D500 only has one. This means that the D780 has an advantage in terms of storage and flexibility.
Connectivity	Both cameras come with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which makes it easier to transfer files and control the camera remotely.
Physical	The D780 is a bit heavier than the D500, but both cameras are built with high-quality materials and have good weather sealing for outdoor photography.
Misc.	The D780 is a more expensive camera than the D500, but it comes with more advanced features and technology updates. The choice between the two cameras depends on your specific needs and budget.

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Features Comparison

The Nikon D780 and D500 have many features that set them apart from each other. While the D780 has a better sensor and higher resolution, the D500 has a larger buffer capacity and faster autofocus system, making it a great choice for action photography.

Viewfinder Magnif.	The Nikon D780 has a viewfinder magnification of 0.7x, which is slightly lower than the Nikon D500’s viewfinder magnification of 0.8x.
Image Processor	The Nikon D780 has a newer image processor, the EXPEED 6, compared to the Nikon D500’s EXPEED 5 processor, resulting in better image quality and color reproduction.
Sensor Resolution	The Nikon D780 has a higher sensor resolution of 24.5 megapixels compared to the Nikon D500’s 20.9 megapixels.
Battery Life	The Nikon D780 has a longer battery life of 2260 shots per charge, while the Nikon D500 can shoot up to 1240 shots per charge.
Weight	The Nikon D780 is slightly heavier with a weight of 840g, whereas the Nikon D500’s weight is 860g.
Sensor Pixel Area	The Nikon D780 has a bigger sensor pixel area of 5.94µm² compared to the Nikon D500’s 4.22µm², which results in better image quality and low light performance.
Focus Bracketing & Stacking	The Nikon D780 has both focus bracketing and stacking features, which the Nikon D500 lacks.
Number of Focus Points	The Nikon D780 and the Nikon D500 both have 153 focus points, with the D780 having a slight advantage due to its newer autofocus system.
Number of Cross Type Focus Points	The Nikon D780 has more cross-type focus points with 55 compared to the Nikon D500’s 99, which results in improved autofocus accuracy.
Continuous Shooting	The Nikon D500 can shoot up to 10 frames per second compared to the Nikon D780’s 7 frames per second. But the D780 compensates for this with a larger buffer capacity.
Flash Sync Port & NFC Connection	Both cameras have a flash sync port, but the Nikon D780 lacks NFC connection.
Shutter Life Expectancy	The Nikon D780 has a longer shutter life expectancy of 200,000 shots compared to Nikon D500’s 150,000 shots.
Illuminated Buttons	The Nikon D780 has illuminated buttons, which the Nikon D500 lacks. This results in better visibility in low light environments.

Performance Comparison

The Nikon D780 and D500 are both powerful cameras, but there are some key differences in their performance. The D780 has a higher resolution sensor and faster autofocus system, while the D500 offers a higher frame rate and a larger buffer capacity for continuous shooting.

Both cameras have their strengths and are worth considering for different types of photography.

Performance Factors	Nikon D780	Nikon D500
Low Light Performance	Despite having lower max ISO than D500, D780 performs better in low light due to better image processor and larger sensor.	D500 has a higher max ISO but struggles with noise reduction in low light.
Frame Rate	D500 has an edge with a 10 fps frame rate.	D780 manages 7 fps, but performs better in low light.
Autofocus Speed	D780 has a more advanced autofocus system and performs better in low light.	D500’s autofocus system is no slouch, but struggles a bit in low light.
Buffer Capacity	D780 has a larger buffer capacity, allowing for more continuous shots before slowing down.	D500 has a slightly smaller buffer capacity.

The Nikon D780 and D500 provide some of the best performance you can get from a DSLR camera. In terms of low light performance, the D780 has a larger sensor and better image processor that give it an edge over the D500. The frame rate on the D500 is higher than the D780, but the latter’s autofocus system is more advanced for better and faster focusing. Additionally, the D780 has a larger buffer capacity than the D500 that allows for more shots without slowing down.

Image Comparison

Video Comparison

The Nikon D780 and D500 are two high-end cameras with unique features. The D780 has a full-frame sensor and better low-light performance, while the D500 is built for speed with a fast autofocus system and huge buffer capacity. A video comparison can help you decide which one is perfect for your needs.

	Nikon D780	Nikon D500
Video Quality	The Nikon D780 produces exceptional video quality with stunning sharpness and clarity. The camera’s 4K UHD capabilities make it perfect for professional-quality video production.	The Nikon D500 has excellent video quality as well, with sharp and detailed footage. However, it doesn’t have 4K UHD capabilities, so it falls behind the D780 in terms of video quality.
Video Autofocus	The D780 has an advanced autofocus system that performs impeccably during video recording. It provides a range of AF modes and the option to switch between different AF points, which makes it perfect for capturing moving subjects during video production.	The D500 also has good autofocus performance during video recording, but it falls short in comparison to the autofocus capabilities of the Nikon D780.
Video Stabilization	The D780 comes with an in-camera vibration reduction (VR) system that stabilizes the footage during video recording. This feature prevents motion blur and makes sure that videos are smooth and steady.	The D500 doesn’t have an in-camera VR system, which means that you’ll need to rely on the camera lens for stabilization during video recording.

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Price Comparison

Compare Nikon’s D780 and D500 cameras in terms of price. Check out top-rated photography blogs, forums, and websites for in-depth insights about these cameras, including their features, ratings, sample photos, and performance in low light conditions.

Camera Model	Price
Nikon D780	$2,296.95
Nikon D500	$1,496.95

The Nikon D780 is more expensive compared to the Nikon D500. The D780 costs around $2,296.95 while the D500 will only cost you around $1,496.95. The price difference between the two is significant, and this can make a difference in your buying decision, especially if you’re on a budget. However, keep in mind that the D780 does come with more advanced features than the D500, so the higher price may be worth it if you need those additional features for your photography needs. It’s essential to note that the prices mentioned here are subject to change and may differ depending on where you purchase them.

Frequently Asked Questions On Nikon D780 Vs D500

Is Nikon D850 Better Than D500?

Both Nikon D850 and D500 are excellent cameras, but they are designed for different purposes. Nikon D850 is a full-frame camera with a higher resolution sensor, while D500 is a crop sensor camera designed for sports and wildlife photography. Which one is better depends on your specific needs.

Why Is The Nikon D500 Sold Out?

Nikon D500 is sold out due to its fast autofocus system and large buffer capacity, which makes it capable of capturing images at an incredible speed even when shooting raw.

Is Nikon D500 A Professional?

Yes, the Nikon D500 is a professional-level camera known for its fast autofocus system, large buffer capacity, and ability to capture high-quality images even when shooting in raw format.

What Is The Nikon D780 Good For?

The Nikon D780 is a versatile DSLR camera that is great for both still photography and videography. It offers fast autofocus, high frame rates, and a large buffer capacity for shooting RAW. Its improved low-light performance and superior image quality make it perfect for capturing stunning images.

Conclusion

The Nikon D780 and D500 are both great cameras that offer outstanding features for photographers. The D500 stands out with its high frame rate and impressive autofocus system, while the D780 has a larger sensor, higher resolution, and higher dynamic range.

Both cameras are ideal for different types of photography, and the choice ultimately depends on your specific needs. Whether you are a beginner or a professional photographer, Nikon’s range of cameras provides an exceptional photography experience.