What To Know
- The D500 has a native ISO range of 100-51200, expandable to 1640000, while the D850 has a native ISO range of 64-25600, expandable to 108400.
- The D500 can shoot up to 10 frames per second (fps) with a buffer of 200 RAW images, while the D850 can shoot up to 9 fps with a buffer of 51 images.
- However, if you need a camera that can shoot faster burst rates, has a larger buffer, and is more rugged, the D500 is the ideal option.
Capturing breathtaking wildlife images requires a camera that can keep up with the fast-paced action and deliver exceptional image quality. Two of the most popular choices for wildlife photographers are the Nikon D500 and D850. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the Nikon D500 vs D850 for wildlife photography, exploring their key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon D500 boasts a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor, while the D850 features a 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor. The larger sensor size of the D850 provides it with an advantage in terms of resolution, allowing for larger prints and more detailed images. However, the D500’s APS-C sensor offers a narrower field of view, which can be beneficial for wildlife photography where you want to capture close-up shots of animals.
ISO Performance
Both the D500 and D850 offer excellent ISO performance, enabling you to capture sharp and noise-free images even in low-light conditions. The D500 has a native ISO range of 100-51200, expandable to 1640000, while the D850 has a native ISO range of 64-25600, expandable to 108400. In real-world scenarios, the D500 has a slight edge in high ISO performance, producing images with less noise at higher sensitivities.
Autofocus System
The autofocus system is crucial for wildlife photography, as it determines how quickly and accurately the camera can lock onto and track moving subjects. The D500 employs a 153-point autofocus system, while the D850 features a 153-point autofocus system with 99 cross-type points. Both cameras offer fast and reliable autofocus, but the D850’s more advanced autofocus system provides better subject tracking and accuracy, particularly in low-light conditions.
Burst Rate and Buffer
The burst rate and buffer capacity are important factors for capturing fast-paced action. The D500 can shoot up to 10 frames per second (fps) with a buffer of 200 RAW images, while the D850 can shoot up to 9 fps with a buffer of 51 images. The D500’s higher burst rate and larger buffer make it more suitable for capturing sequences of fast-moving animals.
Weather Sealing
For wildlife photography, it is essential to have a camera that can withstand harsh weather conditions. Both the D500 and D850 are weather-sealed, but the D500 is more rugged and durable. It features a magnesium alloy body and is resistant to dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for shooting in challenging environments.
Other Features
In addition to the key features discussed above, the D500 and D850 offer a range of other features that can enhance your wildlife photography experience. These include:
- Built-in flash: Both cameras have built-in flash units for additional illumination.
- GPS: The D500 and D850 both have built-in GPS modules for geotagging your images.
- Interval shooting: Both cameras offer interval shooting modes for capturing time-lapse sequences.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Both cameras support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for wireless image transfer and remote control.
Which Camera is Right for You?
Choosing between the Nikon D500 and D850 for wildlife photography depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize resolution, low-light performance, and subject tracking, the D850 is the better choice. However, if you need a camera that can shoot faster burst rates, has a larger buffer, and is more rugged, the D500 is the ideal option.
Deciding Factors
To help you make a decision, consider the following factors:
- Budget: The D850 is significantly more expensive than the D500.
- Resolution: The D850 offers higher resolution for larger prints and more detailed images.
- Low-light performance: The D500 has a slight advantage in high ISO performance.
- Autofocus: The D850 has a more advanced autofocus system for better subject tracking.
- Burst rate and buffer: The D500 offers a higher burst rate and larger buffer for capturing fast-paced action.
- Weather sealing: The D500 is more rugged and durable for shooting in challenging environments.
In a nutshell: The Ultimate Choice
Both the Nikon D500 and D850 are exceptional cameras for wildlife photography, offering unique strengths and capabilities. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision and choose the camera that will help you capture stunning wildlife images for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which camera has better image stabilization?
Neither the D500 nor the D850 has built-in image stabilization.
2. Can I use the same lenses on both cameras?
No, the D500 uses APS-C lenses, while the D850 uses full-frame lenses.
3. Which camera is better for video recording?
The D850 offers better video recording capabilities, including 4K video at 30 fps and 1080p video at 120 fps.
4. Does the D500 have a built-in flash?
Yes, the D500 has a built-in flash with a guide number of 12.
5. Can I use a remote shutter release with both cameras?
Yes, both cameras have a remote shutter release port.
