What To Know
- However, the D850 is a better choice for photographers who need the highest possible image quality, while the D500 is a better choice for photographers who need a faster burst rate and a longer reach.
The Nikon D850 and Nikon D500 are two of the most popular cameras for wildlife photography. Both cameras offer excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and a variety of features that make them ideal for capturing stunning wildlife images. However, there are also some key differences between the two cameras that may make one a better choice for your needs than the other.
Sensor
The Nikon D850 has a 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor, while the Nikon D500 has a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor. The larger sensor in the D850 gives it a wider dynamic range and better low-light performance, which can be beneficial for wildlife photography. However, the smaller sensor in the D500 gives it a longer reach, which can be useful for photographing distant wildlife.
Autofocus
Both the Nikon D850 and Nikon D500 have excellent autofocus systems, but the D850 has a slight edge. The D850 has 153 autofocus points, while the D500 has 51 autofocus points. The D850 also has a more advanced autofocus algorithm, which gives it better subject tracking and low-light autofocus performance.
Burst Rate
The Nikon D850 has a maximum burst rate of 9 frames per second (fps), while the Nikon D500 has a maximum burst rate of 10 fps. The D500’s faster burst rate gives it an advantage for capturing fast-moving wildlife.
ISO Range
The Nikon D850 has an ISO range of 64-25600, while the Nikon D500 has an ISO range of 100-51200. The D500’s wider ISO range gives it an advantage for photographing wildlife in low-light conditions.
Weather Sealing
Both the Nikon D850 and Nikon D500 are weather-sealed, which means they can withstand dust and moisture. However, the D850 has a more robust weather-sealing system than the D500, which makes it a better choice for photographing wildlife in harsh conditions.
Size and Weight
The Nikon D850 is larger and heavier than the Nikon D500. The D850 weighs 1020 grams, while the D500 weighs 860 grams. The D500’s smaller size and lighter weight make it easier to carry and use for long periods of time.
Price
The Nikon D850 is more expensive than the Nikon D500. The D850 retails for $3,299, while the D500 retails for $1,999. The D850’s higher price tag reflects its higher resolution sensor, faster autofocus system, and more robust weather-sealing system.
Which Camera Is Right for You?
The Nikon D850 and Nikon D500 are both excellent cameras for wildlife photography. However, the D850 is a better choice for photographers who need the highest possible image quality, while the D500 is a better choice for photographers who need a faster burst rate and a longer reach.
Takeaways: Nikon D850 vs Nikon D500 for Wildlife
The Nikon D850 and Nikon D500 are two of the best cameras for wildlife photography on the market today. Both cameras offer excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and a variety of features that make them ideal for capturing stunning wildlife images. However, the D850 is a better choice for photographers who need the highest possible image quality, while the D500 is a better choice for photographers who need a faster burst rate and a longer reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography, the Nikon D850 or the Nikon D500?
A: Both the Nikon D850 and Nikon D500 are excellent cameras for wildlife photography. However, the D850 is a better choice for photographers who need the highest possible image quality, while the D500 is a better choice for photographers who need a faster burst rate and a longer reach.
Q: What are the key differences between the Nikon D850 and the Nikon D500?
A: The key differences between the Nikon D850 and the Nikon D500 are:
- Sensor: The D850 has a 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor, while the D500 has a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor.
- Autofocus: The D850 has a 153-point autofocus system, while the D500 has a 51-point autofocus system.
- Burst rate: The D850 has a maximum burst rate of 9 fps, while the D500 has a maximum burst rate of 10 fps.
- ISO range: The D850 has an ISO range of 64-25600, while the D500 has an ISO range of 100-51200.
- Weather sealing: The D850 has a more robust weather-sealing system than the D500.
- Size and weight: The D850 is larger and heavier than the D500.
- Price: The D850 is more expensive than the D500.
Q: Which camera is right for me?
A: The best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you need the highest possible image quality, the Nikon D850 is the better choice. If you need a faster burst rate and a longer reach, the Nikon D500 is the better choice.
