What To Know
- The Canon 50D has a native ISO range of 100-3200, expandable to 6400, while the Nikon D90 has a native ISO range of 200-3200, expandable to 6400.
- The 50D offers higher resolution, faster continuous shooting speed, and video recording capabilities, while the D90 provides a slightly wider ISO range, longer battery life, and a more affordable price.
- The Canon 50D features a more robust magnesium alloy body, making it more durable and weather-resistant than the Nikon D90.
In the realm of digital SLR photography, the Canon 50D and Nikon D90 have long been revered as formidable contenders. Both cameras boast impressive features and capabilities, making them ideal choices for aspiring and professional photographers alike. However, understanding the subtle differences between these iconic cameras is crucial for making an informed decision.
Image Quality and Resolution
The Canon 50D sports a 15.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D90 features a 12.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. While the 50D offers a slightly higher resolution, both cameras deliver exceptional image quality with vibrant colors, sharp details, and minimal noise, even in low-light conditions.
Autofocus and Shooting Speed
The Canon 50D employs a 9-point autofocus system, while the Nikon D90 utilizes an 11-point autofocus system. Both systems provide fast and accurate autofocus, ensuring sharp and well-focused images. However, the 50D has a slight edge in continuous shooting speed, capturing up to 6.3 frames per second compared to the D90’s 4.5 frames per second.
ISO Range and Noise Performance
The Canon 50D has a native ISO range of 100-3200, expandable to 6400, while the Nikon D90 has a native ISO range of 200-3200, expandable to 6400. Both cameras handle noise exceptionally well, producing images with minimal graininess, even at higher ISO settings.
Video Capabilities
The Canon 50D introduced video recording capabilities to the 50D series, allowing users to capture Full HD videos at 1080p resolution at 24 frames per second. The Nikon D90, on the other hand, does not have built-in video recording capabilities.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The Canon 50D features a robust magnesium alloy body, making it durable and weather-resistant. The Nikon D90, while not as rugged, still offers a solid construction with a polycarbonate body. Both cameras provide a comfortable grip and intuitive button layout, making them easy to handle and operate.
Battery Life
The Canon 50D is powered by a single LP-E5 battery, which provides approximately 800 shots per charge. The Nikon D90 uses two EN-EL3e batteries, which offer a longer battery life of around 900 shots per charge.
Price and Availability
The Canon 50D was released in 2008 and is currently discontinued. It can be found on the used market for approximately $300-$500. The Nikon D90 was released in 2008 and is also discontinued. It is available on the used market for around $200-$400.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The Canon 50D and Nikon D90 are both excellent choices for photographers seeking a versatile and high-quality digital SLR camera. The 50D offers higher resolution, faster continuous shooting speed, and video recording capabilities, while the D90 provides a slightly wider ISO range, longer battery life, and a more affordable price.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize resolution, speed, and video capabilities, the Canon 50D is a great option. If you value affordability, extended battery life, and a wider ISO range, the Nikon D90 is a solid choice.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: Both the Canon 50D and Nikon D90 deliver excellent image quality, with vibrant colors, sharp details, and minimal noise.
Q: Which camera has faster autofocus?
A: The Canon 50D has a slightly faster autofocus system than the Nikon D90, providing more accurate and consistent focusing.
Q: Which camera has longer battery life?
A: The Nikon D90 has a longer battery life than the Canon 50D, offering approximately 900 shots per charge compared to 800 shots per charge.
Q: Which camera is more durable?
A: The Canon 50D features a more robust magnesium alloy body, making it more durable and weather-resistant than the Nikon D90.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon 50D has built-in video recording capabilities, while the Nikon D90 does not have this feature.
