What To Know
- While the D3200 may produce slightly more detailed images at lower ISOs, the D500’s superior low-light performance makes it the clear winner for shooting in challenging lighting.
- The touchscreen interface of the D500 makes it easier to navigate menus and adjust settings, while the tilting screen allows for more flexible shooting angles.
- The D500 has a battery life of 1240 shots, while the D3200 has a battery life of 540 shots.
Nikon’s D500 and D3200 cameras, despite their similar model designations, represent vastly different worlds within the Nikon DSLR ecosystem. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, performance, and suitability of both cameras, providing you with the insights necessary to make an informed decision.
Key Features Comparison
| Feature | Nikon D500 | Nikon D3200 |
| — | — | — |
| Sensor | 20.9MP APS-C (DX) | 24.2MP APS-C (DX) |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 5 | EXPEED 3 |
| ISO Range | 100-51,200 (expandable to 1640000) | 100-25,600 (expandable to 102,400) |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 10 fps | 4 fps |
| Autofocus System | 153-point Multi-CAM 20K | 11-point AF system |
| Exposure Metering | 180,000-pixel RGB sensor | 420-pixel RGB sensor |
| Viewfinder | Optical, 100% coverage | Optical, 95% coverage |
| LCD Screen | 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen | 3-inch fixed LCD |
| Video Recording | 4K UHD at 30p | Full HD at 60p |
| Weather Sealing | Yes | No |
| Battery Life | 1240 shots | 540 shots |
Sensor and Image Quality
The D500 boasts a 20.9MP APS-C sensor with an impressive ISO range of 100-51,200, expandable to an astounding 1640000. This allows it to capture sharp and detailed images even in extremely low-light conditions. The D3200, on the other hand, has a higher-resolution 24.2MP APS-C sensor with a more modest ISO range of 100-25,600, expandable to 102,400. While the D3200 may produce slightly more detailed images at lower ISOs, the D500’s superior low-light performance makes it the clear winner for shooting in challenging lighting.
Autofocus and Performance
The D500’s 153-point Multi-CAM 20K autofocus system is a powerhouse, delivering lightning-fast and accurate focusing even in the most demanding situations. It excels at tracking moving subjects, making it ideal for sports and wildlife photography. The D3200’s 11-point AF system is more basic, but still capable of producing sharp images under most conditions.
Continuous Shooting Speed
The D500’s blistering 10 fps continuous shooting speed allows you to capture fast-paced action with ease. This makes it an excellent choice for sports, wildlife, and other situations where capturing every moment is crucial. The D3200’s 4 fps continuous shooting speed is adequate for most general photography, but it may fall short in scenarios requiring high-speed capture.
Exposure Metering
The D500’s 180,000-pixel RGB sensor provides highly accurate exposure metering, ensuring that your images are properly exposed even in complex lighting conditions. The D3200’s 420-pixel RGB sensor is less sophisticated, but still capable of producing good exposures in most situations.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
Both cameras feature optical viewfinders, but the D500’s viewfinder offers 100% coverage, while the D3200’s viewfinder offers 95% coverage. This means that the D500 provides a more accurate representation of the final image. The D500 also has a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen LCD, while the D3200 has a 3-inch fixed LCD. The touchscreen interface of the D500 makes it easier to navigate menus and adjust settings, while the tilting screen allows for more flexible shooting angles.
Video Recording
The D500 is the clear winner when it comes to video recording, offering 4K UHD video at 30p. The D3200 is limited to Full HD video at 60p. The D500’s superior video capabilities make it a more versatile camera for videographers and content creators.
Weather Sealing
The D500 features weather sealing, making it resistant to dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor photography in challenging conditions. The D3200 does not have weather sealing, so it is not as well-suited for use in harsh environments.
Battery Life
The D500 has a battery life of 1240 shots, while the D3200 has a battery life of 540 shots. The D500’s longer battery life makes it more suitable for extended shooting sessions.
Which Camera is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Nikon D500 and D3200 depends on your specific needs and budget.
Choose the D500 if:
- You need a camera with exceptional low-light performance
- You require fast and accurate autofocus
- You need high-speed continuous shooting
- You want the ability to shoot 4K UHD video
- You need a camera that is weather-sealed
Choose the D3200 if:
- You are on a budget
- You do not need exceptional low-light performance
- You do not need fast or accurate autofocus
- You do not need high-speed continuous shooting
- You do not need the ability to shoot 4K UHD video
- You do not need a camera that is weather-sealed
Alternatives to Consider
If neither the D500 nor the D3200 meets your needs, consider these alternatives:
- Nikon D7500: A mid-range DSLR with excellent image quality, autofocus, and performance.
- Nikon Z50: A mirrorless camera with a compact design and impressive image quality.
- Fujifilm X-T30: A mirrorless camera with a retro design and excellent image quality.
FAQ
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: The D500 produces slightly sharper images at higher ISOs due to its superior low-light performance.
Q: Which camera is better for sports and wildlife photography?
A: The D500’s superior autofocus and continuous shooting speed make it the better choice for capturing fast-paced action.
Q: Which camera is more suitable for beginners?
A: The D3200 is more affordable and easier to use, making it a better choice for beginners.
Q: Which camera is more durable?
A: The D500 has weather sealing, making it more durable and resistant to harsh conditions.
Q: Which camera has a better battery life?
A: The D500 has a longer battery life, making it more suitable for extended shooting sessions.
