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 | D780 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2016 | 2020 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
06/01/2016 | 12/02/2020 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 147 x 115 x 81 mm | 144 x 116 x 76 mm |
| Camera weight | 860 g | 850 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
20.9 MP050 | 25 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 | 6048 x 4024 |
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 | 23.9 x 35.9 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-C | Full Frame |
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 | 12 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 F |
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 | 5030200 |
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 | 90044080 |
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 | 800080032000 |
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 | 510300 |
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) | Optical (pentaprism) |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A | N/A |
| 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 | 23590001150001500000 |
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-II compatible) |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✓ |
| Battery type | EN-EL15 | EN-EL15b |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
1240 shots1505000 | 2260 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✓ |
The Nikon D780 takes the lead with a score of 81/100, compared to the Nikon D500‘s 75/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, with the D780 being a more recent release in 2020, while the D500 was launched in 2016. They are similar in size and weight, with the D780 measuring 144 x 116 x 76mm and weighing 850g, and the D500 measuring 147 x 115 x 81mm and weighing 860g.
The D780’s higher score shows it has better performance and features than the D500. However, the D500 still has its advantages, such as a lower launch price of $2000 compared to the D780’s $2299. Despite the price difference, the D780’s improved specifications justify its higher price tag and score. Both cameras have their merits, but the Nikon D780 comes out on top as the better option for those willing to invest in a higher-quality camera.
The Nikon D780 outperforms the Nikon D500 in optics with a score of 77/100 compared to the D500’s 69/100. Both cameras share common features, such as the CMOS sensor type, Nikon lens mounts, and the lack of image stabilization. However, the D780 excels in several areas, making it the superior choice for optics.
The D780 boasts a higher megapixel count at 25, compared to the D500’s 20.9. This difference allows the D780 to capture more detail in images. Additionally, the D780 has a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second, compared to the D500’s 10 frames per second. This increased speed enables photographers to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively.
The D780 also has a more advanced Expeed 6 processor, while the D500 uses the Expeed 5 processor. This upgrade contributes to the D780’s improved performance and image processing capabilities. Furthermore, the D780 has a significantly higher DXOMARK sensor score of 97, compared to the D500’s 84, indicating a better overall image quality.
The D500, however, has a smaller APS-C sensor size, while the D780 features a full-frame sensor. This distinction may be an advantage for some users, as APS-C sensors typically provide greater depth of field and can be more affordable compared to full-frame sensors. The D500 also uses the Nikon F DX lens mount, which may be more suitable for those who already own compatible lenses.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D780 proves to be the better camera in terms of optics. Its higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, and superior sensor and processor make it a more capable choice for photographers seeking optimal image quality. The Nikon D500 may still appeal to those who prioritize a smaller sensor size and compatibility with Nikon F DX lenses.
The Nikon D780 outperforms the Nikon D500 in video capabilities, boasting a video score of 91 compared to the D500’s 70. Both cameras share some common specs, including a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.
The D780’s superiority in video performance comes from its higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, which is significantly greater than the D500’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother and more detailed video capture, especially during fast-paced action or sports scenes. The D780’s ability to record at such a high frame rate makes it a more versatile and powerful tool for videographers.
On the other hand, the D500 does not offer any distinct advantage over the D780 in terms of video capabilities. Its lower frame rate is its main drawback when compared to the D780, limiting the camera’s potential in capturing high-quality video.
Taking these specifications into account, the Nikon D780 is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities. Its impressive 120fps frame rate sets it apart from the D500, making it a better option for those looking to capture fast-moving subjects or create slow-motion footage. The D500, while still a capable camera, falls short in this aspect and may not be the ideal choice for videographers seeking top-notch performance.
The Nikon D500 and the Nikon D780 both have a feature score of 87/100, making them equal in this aspect. These cameras share several specifications that contribute to their identical scores. Both cameras have a 3.2-inch screen size, a screen resolution of 2,359,000 dots, and a touchscreen. Additionally, they both have a flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities.
The Nikon D500 excels in certain areas compared to the Nikon D780. It is known for its fast autofocus system, which allows photographers to capture fast-moving subjects with ease. The D500 also has a higher continuous shooting rate, making it ideal for sports and wildlife photography. Its robust build and weather sealing make it a reliable choice for challenging shooting environments.
On the other hand, the Nikon D780 shows its strengths in different aspects. It has a higher resolution sensor, which results in more detailed images. The D780 also has better low-light performance, providing cleaner images at high ISO settings. This makes it a better choice for photographers who often shoot in low-light conditions. Additionally, the D780 has improved video capabilities, offering 4K video recording and advanced video features that the D500 lacks.
Both cameras have their own advantages and are suitable for different types of photography. The Nikon D500 is preferable for action and wildlife photography, while the Nikon D780 is more suited for low-light and video-centric work. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
The Nikon D780 outperforms the Nikon D500 in storage and battery with a score of 97/100, while the D500 scores 79/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, with the D500 being UHS-II compatible and also supporting XQD cards.
The D780 surpasses the D500 in battery life, providing 2260 shots compared to the D500’s 1240 shots. Additionally, the D780 uses the EN-EL15b battery type and offers the convenience of USB charging, which the D500 lacks.
Although the D500 falls short in battery life and charging capabilities, it has the advantage of supporting XQD cards, which offer faster read and write speeds than SD cards.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D780 demonstrates superior storage and battery performance due to its longer battery life and USB charging feature. The Nikon D500, while not as strong in this area, still maintains an edge with its XQD card support.
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 D780:
