Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
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✓ WINNER
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SCORE
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| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Model | D500 | Z50 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2016 | 2019 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
06/01/2016 | 10/10/2019 |
| Camera type | DSLR | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 147 x 115 x 81 mm | 127 x 94 x 60 mm |
| Camera weight | 860 g | 450 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
20.9 MP050 | 21 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
5568 x 3712 | 5568 x 3712 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. |
CMOS | CMOS |
Sensor size ⓘThe sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. |
15.7 x 23.5 | 23.5 x 15.7 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-C | APS-C |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. |
10 fps045 | 11 fps045 |
Lens mount ⓘThe lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. |
Nikon F DX | Nikon Z |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Expeed 5 | Expeed 6 |
Aspect ratio ⓘThe aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |
3:2 | 3:2 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
5030200 | 10030200 |
Max ISO ⓘRefers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. |
512003003280000 | 512003003280000 |
Min ISO (expanded) ⓘExpanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. |
5030200 | 10030200 |
Max ISO (expanded) ⓘExpanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. |
16400003003280000 | 2048003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
Max shutter speed ⓘThe maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. |
800080032000 | 400080032000 |
Autofocus points ⓘAutofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. |
1530300 | 2090300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘIn-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |
✗ | ✗ |
Viewfinder type ⓘThe viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. |
Optical (pentaprism) | Electronic |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A | 236000009900000 |
| Video | ||
Video ⓘIndicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |
✓ | ✓ |
Max video resolution ⓘThe best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |
4K | 4K |
Max video format ⓘVideo resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. |
3840 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 |
Max video frame rate ⓘHow many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. |
30 fps | 120 fps |
Timelapse built in ⓘA built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |
✓ | ✓ |
Video file format ⓘDifferent cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. |
MOV | MPEG-4, MOV |
| Features | ||
Builtin flash ⓘA built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |
✗ | ✓ |
External flash ⓘExternal flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |
✓ | ✓ |
GPS ⓘGPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |
✗ | ✗ |
Weather sealing ⓘWeather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |
✓ | ✓ |
| Screen type | LCD | TFT LCD |
Touch screen ⓘTouchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |
✓ | ✓ |
| Screen size | 3.2" | 3.2" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
23590001150001500000 | 10400001150001500000 |
Flip screen ⓘA flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |
✗ | ✓ |
Live view ⓘLive View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |
✓ | ✓ |
Wi-Fi ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. |
✓ | ✓ |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |
✓ | ✓ |
| Storage & battery | ||
| Memory card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), XQD | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✗ |
| Battery type | EN-EL15 | EN-EL25 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
1240 shots1505000 | 320 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✓ |
The Nikon D500 edges out the Nikon Z50 by a slim margin, scoring 75/100 compared to the Z50’s 73/100. Both cameras share similarities such as being released in the 2010s and having the same manufacturer. The D500, a DSLR camera released in 2016, is larger and heavier, measuring 147 x 115 x 81mm and weighing 1.90lbs. Its higher score indicates its superior performance and features, justifying its $2000 launch price.
On the other hand, the Z50 is a more compact and lightweight mirrorless camera, measuring 127 x 94 x 60mm and weighing just 0.99lbs. Released in 2019, it offers a more affordable option at $859. The Z50’s lower score doesn’t mean it’s a bad camera, but rather it doesn’t match up to the D500’s capabilities.
When considering these cameras, the Nikon D500 is the better choice for those seeking top performance and features, while the Nikon Z50 is a more budget-friendly and compact alternative.
The Nikon Z50 surpasses the Nikon D500 in optics, scoring 72/100 compared to the D500’s 69/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as 20.9 and 21 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, and no image stabilisation. However, the Z50 outperforms the D500 in certain areas, while the D500 has its own advantages.
The Z50’s edge comes from its Expeed 6 processor, which is more advanced than the D500’s Expeed 5 processor. This results in a faster shooting speed of 11 for the Z50, compared to the D500’s 10. Additionally, the Z50 has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor, at 97, while the D500 scores 84. This indicates better overall image quality for the Z50.
On the other hand, the D500 possesses the Nikon F DX lens mount, which offers a wider selection of lenses. The Z50 has the Nikon Z lens mount, which has a more limited range of compatible lenses. This gives the D500 an advantage in terms of lens versatility and options for photographers.
Despite the D500’s lens mount advantage, the Z50’s superior processor, faster shooting speed, and higher DXOMARK score make it the better camera in terms of optics. The Z50’s higher performance in these areas contributes to its overall better score. However, the D500’s broader lens compatibility may still be a deciding factor for some photographers, depending on their specific needs and preferences.
The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Nikon D500 in video capabilities with a score of 91/100, compared to the D500’s 70/100. Both cameras share some video specifications, such as 4K maximum video resolution and 3840 x 2160 maximum video dimensions. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Z50 excels with its higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, which is four times faster than the D500’s 30fps. This significant difference enables the Z50 to capture smoother slow-motion footage and provide more flexibility in post-production. The higher frame rate makes the Z50 a more suitable choice for videographers who require advanced video recording capabilities.
Although the D500 falls short in frame rate, it still offers reliable video performance with its 4K resolution and time-lapse functionality. It may be sufficient for casual video shooters or photographers who occasionally need to record video without demanding high frame rates.
Considering these factors, the Nikon Z50 emerges as the superior choice for video capabilities due to its higher video score and impressive 120fps maximum frame rate. The Nikon D500, while not as advanced in this aspect, remains a viable option for those who do not prioritize high frame rates in their video recording. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras depends on the specific video requirements and preferences of the user.
The Nikon D500 takes the lead with a feature score of 87/100, while the Nikon Z50 follows closely with a score of 86/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3.2-inch touchscreen, flip screen, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras have WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities.
The Nikon D500 excels with a higher screen resolution of 2,359,000 dots, compared to the Z50’s 1,040,000 dots. This difference provides clearer and more detailed image previews on the D500’s screen, giving users a better representation of the final output. The D500’s superior feature score reflects its advantages in this aspect.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z50, despite having a slightly lower feature score, still offers a solid set of features. The 3.2-inch touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth are all valuable aspects that contribute to its overall quality. The Z50’s capabilities may be more than sufficient for various users, depending on their specific needs and preferences.
Comparing the two cameras, the Nikon D500 stands out as the winner in terms of features, mainly due to its higher screen resolution. However, the Nikon Z50 remains a strong contender, providing a similar set of features with a slightly lower screen resolution. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras depends on the user’s priorities, such as screen resolution and overall feature set. Both the Nikon D500 and the Z50 are capable of delivering high-quality performance, making them suitable options for photographers with varying requirements.
The Nikon D500 outperforms the Nikon Z50 in storage and battery with a score of 79/100, while the Z50 scores 35/100. Both cameras share the use of SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the D500 has a significant advantage with two memory card slots and compatibility with faster UHS-II cards and XQD cards. The Z50 has only one memory card slot and supports slower UHS-I cards.
Another notable difference is the battery life, with the D500 offering 1240 shots using the EN-EL15 battery type. The Z50 falls short with 320 shots and uses the EN-EL25 battery. However, the Z50 has the benefit of USB charging, which the D500 lacks.
Considering these points, the Nikon D500 is the clear winner in terms of storage and battery life, providing greater flexibility and longer shooting sessions. The Z50, while having a shorter battery life and less storage capability, offers the convenience of USB charging.
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D500 or the Nikon Z50:
