What To Know
- However, the D500 has a larger buffer, which allows it to shoot more frames in a row before it has to slow down.
- However, the Z offers a number of advantages over the D500, such as a larger sensor, better image quality, faster autofocus, and better video capabilities.
- The D500 is a better choice for photographers who want a more affordable camera with a traditional DSLR design.
The Nikon Z and D500 are two of the most popular cameras on the market today. Both cameras offer excellent image quality, fast performance, and a wide range of features. However, there are also some key differences between the two cameras that may make one a better choice for you than the other. In this blog post, we will compare the Nikon Z and D500 side-by-side to help you decide which camera is right for you.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon Z has a 24.5MP full-frame sensor, while the D500 has a 20.9MP APS-C sensor. This means that the Z has a larger sensor than the D500, which gives it an advantage in terms of image quality. The Z’s full-frame sensor allows it to capture more light, which results in better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range. The D500’s APS-C sensor is still very good, but it is not quite as capable as the Z’s full-frame sensor.
Autofocus
The Nikon Z and D500 both have excellent autofocus systems. The Z uses a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase-detection and contrast-detection AF, while the D500 uses a phase-detection AF system. Both cameras are capable of focusing quickly and accurately, even in low-light conditions. However, the Z’s hybrid AF system gives it a slight edge over the D500’s phase-detection AF system in terms of speed and accuracy.
Burst Shooting
The Nikon Z can shoot up to 11 frames per second (fps) with continuous autofocus, while the D500 can shoot up to 10 fps with continuous autofocus. This makes the Z a better choice for shooting fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife. However, the D500 has a larger buffer, which allows it to shoot more frames in a row before it has to slow down.
Video
The Nikon Z and D500 both offer excellent video capabilities. The Z can shoot 4K video at 30 fps, while the D500 can shoot 4K video at 24 fps. Both cameras offer a variety of video features, such as slow-motion recording, time-lapse recording, and focus peaking. However, the Z has a slight edge over the D500 in terms of video quality and features.
Ergonomics
The Nikon Z and D500 are both well-built cameras with excellent ergonomics. The Z is a bit smaller and lighter than the D500, which makes it easier to carry around. However, the D500 has a more traditional DSLR design, which some photographers may prefer.
Price
The Nikon Z is priced at $2,499, while the D500 is priced at $1,999. This makes the Z a more expensive camera than the D500. However, the Z offers a number of advantages over the D500, such as a larger sensor, better image quality, faster autofocus, and better video capabilities.
Which Camera Is Right for You?
The Nikon Z and D500 are both excellent cameras. The Z is a better choice for photographers who want the best possible image quality, speed, and video capabilities. The D500 is a better choice for photographers who want a more affordable camera with a traditional DSLR design.
Verdict: The Nikon Z Is the Better Camera
Overall, the Nikon Z is the better camera. It offers better image quality, faster autofocus, better video capabilities, and a more compact design than the D500. However, the D500 is a more affordable camera with a traditional DSLR design.
Alternatives to the Nikon Z and D500
If you are looking for an alternative to the Nikon Z and D500, there are a few other cameras that you may want to consider. The Sony A7 III is a full-frame mirrorless camera that offers excellent image quality, fast performance, and a wide range of features. The Fujifilm X-T4 is an APS-C mirrorless camera that offers excellent image quality, fast performance, and a retro design. The Canon EOS 90D is a DSLR camera that offers excellent image quality, fast performance, and a wide range of features.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography, the Nikon Z or the D500?
A: The Nikon Z is better for low-light photography than the D500. The Z’s full-frame sensor allows it to capture more light, which results in better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range.
Q: Which camera is better for sports and wildlife photography, the Nikon Z or the D500?
A: The Nikon Z is better for sports and wildlife photography than the D500. The Z’s faster burst shooting rate and better autofocus system make it a better choice for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Q: Which camera is better for video, the Nikon Z or the D500?
A: The Nikon Z is better for video than the D500. The Z offers higher video resolution, a wider range of video features, and better video quality.
