What To Know
- The Sony A6000 has a shorter battery life, with a capacity of 420 shots on a single charge.
- If you value a wider field of view, better low-light performance, and a more compact form factor, the Sony A6000 is a suitable choice.
- The D500 excels in continuous shooting speed, autofocus performance, and battery life, while the A6000 offers a wider field of view, better low-light performance, and a more compact design.
Nikon D500 and Sony A6000 are two highly acclaimed cameras that cater to the needs of photography enthusiasts. Both cameras offer a range of features and capabilities, making it challenging to choose between them. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Nikon D500 and Sony A6000 to help you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon D500 boasts a 20.9MP DX-format CMOS sensor, while the Sony A6000 features a 24.3MP APS-C-format Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor. Both sensors offer excellent image quality, but there are subtle differences.
The D500’s DX-format sensor is slightly smaller, resulting in a 1.5x crop factor. This means that lenses will have a narrower field of view on the D500 compared to the A6000. However, the smaller sensor size also contributes to reduced noise at higher ISO settings.
The A6000’s APS-C-format sensor is larger, which provides a wider field of view and better low-light performance. However, it is more susceptible to noise at higher ISO settings.
Autofocus System
The Nikon D500 is renowned for its exceptional autofocus system, featuring 153 autofocus points with 99 cross-type sensors. This system provides fast and accurate focusing, even in low-light conditions.
The Sony A6000 also has a capable autofocus system with 179 autofocus points, including 25 contrast-detect points. It offers fast and reliable focusing, but it may not be as precise as the D500’s system in certain situations.
Continuous Shooting Speed
The Nikon D500 excels in continuous shooting speed, capturing up to 10 frames per second (fps) with the mechanical shutter and 20 fps with the electronic shutter. This makes it ideal for capturing fast-paced action or wildlife.
The Sony A6000 has a slower continuous shooting speed of 11 fps with the mechanical shutter and 8 fps with the electronic shutter. While it is still capable of capturing moving subjects, it may not be as suitable for highly demanding scenarios.
Viewfinder and Screen
The Nikon D500 features a large and bright optical viewfinder with 100% coverage. It provides a clear and immersive view of the scene, making it easier to compose and capture images.
The Sony A6000 has an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 100% coverage and a resolution of 1.44 million dots. While it offers a good level of detail, it may not be as bright or responsive as the D500’s optical viewfinder.
Both cameras have rear LCD screens that are tiltable, allowing for flexible viewing angles. The D500’s screen is slightly larger at 3.2 inches compared to the A6000’s 3-inch screen.
Battery Life
The Nikon D500 has an impressive battery life, capable of capturing up to 1900 shots on a single charge. This makes it suitable for extended shooting sessions without the need for frequent battery changes.
The Sony A6000 has a shorter battery life, with a capacity of 420 shots on a single charge. While it is still sufficient for most casual shooting, it may require more frequent recharging for extended use.
Price and Availability
The Nikon D500 is currently priced around $1,500, while the Sony A6000 is available for approximately $600. The price difference reflects the D500’s more advanced features and capabilities.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The choice between the Nikon D500 and Sony A6000 depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you prioritize high-speed continuous shooting, precise autofocus, and excellent battery life, the Nikon D500 is the better option. It is ideal for wildlife photographers, sports photographers, and anyone who requires a camera that can handle fast-paced action.
If you value a wider field of view, better low-light performance, and a more compact form factor, the Sony A6000 is a suitable choice. It is a great option for general photography, travel photography, and enthusiasts who want a versatile and portable camera.
Conclusion: Nikon D500 vs Sony A6000
The Nikon D500 and Sony A6000 are both excellent cameras that offer different strengths and weaknesses. The D500 excels in continuous shooting speed, autofocus performance, and battery life, while the A6000 offers a wider field of view, better low-light performance, and a more compact design. The best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.
FAQ
Q: Which camera has a faster autofocus system?
A: The Nikon D500 has a faster and more precise autofocus system with 153 autofocus points and 99 cross-type sensors.
Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Nikon D500 has a longer battery life, capable of capturing up to 1900 shots on a single charge.
Q: Which camera has a wider field of view?
A: The Sony A6000 has a wider field of view due to its larger APS-C-format sensor.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Sony A6000 has better low-light performance due to its larger sensor and improved noise reduction capabilities.
Q: Which camera is more compact and lightweight?
A: The Sony A6000 is more compact and lightweight than the Nikon D500, making it more suitable for travel and street photography.
