Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Model | D500 | D810 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2016 | 2014 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
06/01/2016 | 26/06/2014 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 147 x 115 x 81 mm | 146 x 123 x 82 mm |
| Camera weight | 860 g | 980 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
20.9 MP050 | 36.3 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 | 7360 x 4912 |
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 | 24 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 | 5 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 FX |
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 4 |
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 | 6430200 |
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 | 320003003280000 |
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 | 3230200 |
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 | 512003003280000 |
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 | 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 (tunnel) |
| 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 | Full HD |
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 | 1920 x 1080 |
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 | 60 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 | 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 | 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 | 12290001150001500000 |
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, Compact Flash, UDMA |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✓ |
| Battery type | EN-EL15 | EN-EL15 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
1240 shots1505000 | 1200 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Nikon D500 outperforms the Nikon D810 with a score of 75/100 compared to 72/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2016 and 2014, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the D500 measuring 147x115x81mm and the D810 at 146x123x82mm.
The D500 is superior in terms of weight and pricing, weighing 860g and priced at $2000, while the D810 is heavier at 980g and more expensive with a $3300 launch price. However, the D810 might have some advantages over the D500 due to its higher launch price.
Considering the scores, weight, and pricing, the Nikon D500 proves to be a better choice for users seeking a lighter and more affordable DSLR camera.
The Nikon D810 outperforms the Nikon D500 in optics with a score of 76/100, a 7-point lead over the D500’s 69/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as CMOS sensor type, no image stabilization, and Nikon F lens mount. However, there are key differences that contribute to the D810’s higher score.
The Nikon D810 boasts a 36.3-megapixel sensor, significantly higher than the D500’s 20.9 megapixels, providing more detail and resolution in images. Additionally, the D810 has a full-frame sensor, which captures a larger field of view and performs better in low-light situations compared to the D500’s APS-C sensor. The D810 also has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 97, indicating superior image quality.
On the other hand, the Nikon D500 has some advantages over the D810. It features a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second compared to the D810’s 5 frames per second, making it more suitable for action and sports photography. Furthermore, the D500 has a more advanced Expeed 5 processor, offering faster image processing and better noise reduction.
In terms of optics, the Nikon D810 is the clear winner with its higher megapixel count, full-frame sensor, and superior image quality. However, the Nikon D500 may be more suitable for specific needs, such as action photography, due to its faster shooting speed and advanced processor. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the photographer’s requirements and preferences.
The Nikon D500 and Nikon D810 both have a video score of 70/100, indicating that these cameras have comparable video capabilities. They share common features, such as time-lapse functionality built in, which allows for the creation of stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment.
In terms of video resolution, the Nikon D500 has the advantage with a maximum video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160), compared to the Nikon D810’s Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. This means that the D500 can capture higher quality, more detailed videos than the D810, making it a better choice for videographers who prioritize resolution and image quality in their work.
On the other hand, the Nikon D810 excels in its maximum video frame rate, offering 60fps compared to the D500’s 30fps. A higher frame rate enables smoother video playback and is particularly useful for capturing fast-moving subjects or creating slow-motion effects. Therefore, the D810 may be a better option for those who value smoothness and motion in their videos over resolution.
Given these differences, the Nikon D500 stands out as the better choice for those prioritizing high-resolution video quality, while the Nikon D810 is more suitable for videographers who require a higher frame rate for smooth motion capture. Both cameras offer excellent video capabilities, and the deciding factor between them will ultimately depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.
The Nikon D500 emerges as the winner in the features department, scoring 87/100 compared to the Nikon D810’s 59/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a 3.2-inch screen size and the absence of GPS. They also both have WIFI capabilities, allowing users to transfer photos and control the camera remotely.
The D500 has several advantages over the D810, such as a higher screen resolution of 2,359,000 dots compared to the D810’s 1,229,000 dots. This difference provides the D500 users with a clearer and more detailed display for reviewing images and navigating the camera’s menu. Additionally, the D500 has a touchscreen, making it easier to navigate through settings and select focus points. The D500 also features a flip screen, which allows for more flexible shooting angles and aids in capturing images from difficult positions. Finally, the D500 includes Bluetooth connectivity for seamless pairing with compatible devices, enhancing the overall user experience.
On the other hand, the Nikon D810 does not offer any significant advantages in the features department over the D500. It lacks the touchscreen, flip screen, and Bluetooth capabilities that the D500 possesses.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D500 clearly outshines the D810 in terms of features. The D500’s higher resolution screen, touchscreen, flip screen, and Bluetooth connectivity provide a more user-friendly experience and greater flexibility in various shooting situations. While the Nikon D810 remains a capable camera, the D500 proves to be the better choice for photographers seeking advanced features and convenience.
The Nikon D500 and Nikon D810 both achieve a storage and battery score of 79/100. They share similarities in storage and battery specifications, as they both possess two memory card slots and utilize the EN-EL15 battery type. Additionally, neither camera has USB charging capabilities.
The Nikon D500 edges ahead with its compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible) and XQD memory cards, allowing for faster data transfer speeds. Furthermore, its battery life lasts longer, providing 1240 shots per charge compared to the Nikon D810’s 1200 shots.
On the other hand, the Nikon D810 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC and Compact Flash, UDMA memory cards, which may be more suitable for those already invested in these card types. However, this advantage might not be significant considering the D500’s superior battery life and memory card compatibility.
Conclusively, the Nikon D500 outperforms the Nikon D810 in terms of storage and battery capabilities due to its extended battery life and improved memory card compatibility. The Nikon D810, although slightly inferior, still offers decent storage and battery performance, with its support for additional memory card types.

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 D810: