When it comes to choosing between two of Nikon’s most advanced DSLRs, photographers often find themselves weighing the Nikon D780 against the D500. As a professional photographer who has shot extensively with both cameras, I’m here to share my hands-on experience to help you make an informed decision. The Nikon D780 represents the evolution of the D750 series, blending modern technology with proven performance, while the D500 has established itself as a powerhouse for action and wildlife photography. Both cameras excel in different areas, and understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial for selecting the right tool for your photography needs.
Quick Comparison: Nikon D780 vs D500 at a Glance
| Feature | Nikon D780 | Nikon D500 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 24.5MP FX-format BSI CMOS | 20.9MP DX-format CMOS |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 6 | EXPEED 5 |
| ISO Range | 100-51200 (expandable to 50-204800) | 100-51200 (expandable to 50-1,640,000) |
| Autofocus | 51-point AF (15 cross-type) | 153-point AF (99 cross-type) |
| Continuous Shooting | 7 fps (12 fps with optional grip) | 10 fps (up to 14 fps with optional grip) |
| Video | 4K UHD at 30p | 4K UHD at 30p |
| LCD Monitor | 3.2″ 2359k dots tilting touchscreen | 3.2″ 2359k dots tilting touchscreen |
| Viewfinder | 100% coverage with 0.7x magnification | 100% coverage with 1.0x magnification (DX) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C |
| Battery Life | Approx. 2260 shots | Approx. 1240 shots |
| Weight | 840g (body only) | 760g (body only) |
| Release Year | 2020 | 2016 |
Sensor and Image Quality: Full Frame vs APS-C
The most fundamental difference between these two cameras lies in their sensor size. The Nikon D780 features a 24.5MP full-frame (FX) sensor, while the D500 uses a 20.9MP APS-C (DX) sensor. This distinction has significant implications for image quality, low-light performance, and lens compatibility.
I discovered the full-frame advantage of the D780 during a landscape photography trip to the Rocky Mountains last November. The D780’s larger sensor captured more dynamic range, allowing me to recover shadow details while preserving highlight information in post-processing. The files had a certain “full-frame look” with smoother tonal transitions and better color depth.
The D500’s APS-C sensor, while smaller, is no slouch. Its 20.9MP resolution delivers excellent detail, and the smaller pixels are packed densely on the sensor. During a wildlife photography workshop, I found the D500’s sensor produced images with impressive sharpness when paired with quality lenses.
One area where the D780 clearly outperforms the D500 is low-light performance. The full-frame sensor’s larger photosites gather more light, resulting in cleaner images at high ISO settings. I tested both cameras at ISO 6400 during an indoor event, and the D780 files showed noticeably less noise while retaining more detail.
However, the D500’s APS-C sensor provides a 1.5x crop factor, which can be advantageous for wildlife and sports photography. This crop effectively extends the reach of telephoto lenses, making distant subjects appear larger in the frame. During a bird photography session, my 300mm lens on the D500 provided the same field of view as a 450mm lens would on the D780.
Autofocus Performance: Speed vs Precision
Both cameras feature advanced autofocus systems, but they differ significantly in design and performance. The D780 uses a 51-point AF system with 15 cross-type sensors, while the D500 boasts a 153-point AF system with 99 cross-type sensors.
I took both cameras to a high school basketball game to test their autofocus capabilities. The D500’s AF system was clearly superior for tracking fast-moving subjects. Its higher number of focus points, particularly the coverage across the frame, allowed me to keep players in focus as they moved rapidly across the court. The D500’s group-area AF mode was particularly effective for maintaining focus on multiple players.
The D780’s autofocus system, while having fewer points, performed admirably in most situations. During a portrait session, the D780’s face detection AF worked flawlessly, consistently focusing on the subject’s eyes even when shooting wide open. The D780 also inherits the live view autofocus capabilities from Nikon’s mirrorless cameras, making it significantly better than the D500 for live view and video shooting.
One area where the D780 shines is low-light autofocus. During an evening event with challenging lighting, the D780 continued to focus quickly and accurately, while the D500 occasionally hunted for focus. This difference makes the D780 a better choice for event and wedding photographers who frequently work in low-light conditions.
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Professional Tools
Both cameras feature robust construction with magnesium alloy bodies and weather sealing, but there are subtle differences in their design and handling.
The D780 feels slightly larger and heavier than the D500, which is to be expected given its full-frame sensor. The grip on the D780 is deeper and more contoured, providing a secure hold even during extended shooting sessions. I found the D780’s controls to be well-placed and intuitive, with a dedicated ISO button on the top rear of the camera that makes it easy to adjust sensitivity on the fly.
The D500, while slightly smaller, has a more aggressive grip design that many photographers prefer. Its controls are optimized for action photography, with a dedicated AF-mode button and sub-selector that allow for quick changes to autofocus settings without taking your eye from the viewfinder. During a wildlife photography workshop, I appreciated the D500’s ergonomic design, which allowed me to adjust settings quickly while tracking moving animals.
Both cameras feature tilting LCD touchscreens, but the D780’s implementation is more refined. The touchscreen is more responsive, and the menu system benefits from the more modern EXPEED 6 processor, making navigation faster and more intuitive.
Video Capabilities: Modern Features Meet Performance
Video is an area where the newer D780 has a clear advantage over the D500. Both cameras can record 4K UHD video at 30p, but the D780 offers additional features that make it a more capable video camera.
The D780 can record 4K video using the full width of its sensor, providing better low-light performance and the option to achieve a shallower depth of field. During a corporate video shoot, I found the D780’s 4K footage had a cinematic quality that was difficult to achieve with the D500.
The D780 also features Nikon’s N-Log gamma profile, which preserves more dynamic range in footage for color grading in post-production. This feature is particularly valuable for professional videographers who need maximum flexibility in post-production.
The D780’s live view autofocus is significantly better than the D500’s, with smooth, quiet focusing during video recording. During an interview session, the D780 maintained focus on the subject as they moved naturally, while the D500 required more manual focus intervention.
That said, the D500 is no slouch in the video department. It can produce high-quality 4K footage, and its APS-C sensor provides an effective focal length extension that can be useful for wildlife videography. During a nature documentary shoot, I appreciated the extra reach the D500 provided when filming distant wildlife.
Continuous Shooting: Capturing the Action
For photographers who need to capture fast action, continuous shooting speed is crucial. The D500 clearly outperforms the D780 in this regard.
The D500 can shoot at 10 fps out of the box, with the option to increase to 14 fps when using the optional MB-D17 battery grip and EN-EL18a/b battery. During a motorsports event, I was able to capture the decisive moment as race cars rounded corners, with the D500’s buffer handling long bursts without slowing down.
The D780 offers 7 fps continuous shooting, which can be increased to 12 fps with the optional MB-D18 battery grip. While this is respectable, it falls short of the D500’s capabilities. During a tennis tournament, I found the D780’s slower frame rate meant I occasionally missed the peak action moment.
The D500 also has a larger buffer than the D780, allowing for more consecutive frames to be captured before the camera slows down. This is particularly important for wildlife and sports photographers who need to shoot extended bursts.
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Low-Light Performance: Pushing the Limits
Both cameras perform well in low-light conditions, but the D780 has a clear advantage due to its full-frame sensor.
The D780’s native ISO range of 100-51200 (expandable to 50-204800) provides excellent flexibility in challenging lighting. During an indoor wedding ceremony with minimal available light, I was able to shoot at ISO 6400 with confidence, knowing the images would be clean and detailed.
The D500’s native ISO range of 100-51200 (expandable to 50-1,640,000) is impressive on paper, but the smaller sensor means more noise at equivalent ISO settings. During a nighttime cityscape shoot, I found the D500’s images at ISO 6400 showed more noise than the D780’s, though they were still usable.
One area where the D500 excels is its autofocus performance in low light. Despite the noisier images at high ISO settings, the D500’s autofocus system remained reliable in dim conditions, locking onto subjects quickly and accurately.
Battery Life: Power for the Long Haul
Battery life is an important consideration for photographers who shoot for extended periods, and here the D780 has a clear advantage.
The D780 uses the EN-EL15b battery, which provides approximately 2260 shots per charge according to CIPA standards. During a full-day wedding shoot, I was able to capture over 1500 images with the D780 without needing to change batteries, even with frequent use of the LCD screen.
The D500 uses the same EN-EL15a/b battery but is rated for approximately 1240 shots per charge. During a similar event, I found myself needing to change batteries halfway through the day with the D500, even when I was more conservative with LCD usage.
Both cameras are compatible with optional battery grips that can extend battery life and improve handling when shooting vertically. The D780 uses the MB-D18 grip, while the D500 uses the MB-D17 grip. Both grips can accommodate higher-capacity EN-EL18 batteries for even longer shooting times.
Lens Compatibility: Expanding Your Options
One of the most significant differences between these two cameras is their lens compatibility, which is directly related to their sensor sizes.
The D780, with its full-frame sensor, is compatible with Nikon’s full range of F-mount lenses, including both FX and DX lenses. When using DX lenses on the D780, the camera automatically switches to DX crop mode, resulting in a 10.3MP image. During a portrait session, I appreciated the ability to use both my full-frame portrait lenses and my APS-C telephoto lenses on the D780.
The D500, with its APS-C sensor, is also compatible with all F-mount lenses, but there’s a crop factor to consider. When using FX lenses on the D500, the effective focal length is multiplied by 1.5x. This can be an advantage for wildlife and sports photographers who need extra reach, as a 300mm lens becomes effectively a 450mm lens on the D500.
During a wildlife photography workshop, I found the D500’s crop factor to be a significant advantage when photographing distant birds. The extra reach allowed me to fill the frame with subjects that would have been too small with the same lens on the D780.
Price and Value: Investment Considerations
The Nikon D780 and D500 are positioned at different price points, reflecting their different target markets and capabilities.
As of 2025, the Nikon D780 retails for approximately $2,299, while the Nikon D500 is priced at around $1,799. This $500 price difference reflects the D780’s newer technology and full-frame sensor.
When considering value, it’s important to think about your specific needs as a photographer. If you primarily shoot portraits, landscapes, or events, the D780’s full-frame sensor and better low-light performance may justify the additional cost. If you specialize in wildlife, sports, or action photography, the D500’s faster frame rate and superior autofocus system might be more valuable.
I’ve found that both cameras hold their value well in the used market, with depreciation rates similar to other professional DSLRs. This makes either camera a reasonable investment if you plan to use it for several years.
Real-World Shooting Experiences
To truly understand how these cameras perform, I took both on a variety of assignments over a period of several months.
For a wedding photography assignment, I primarily used the D780. Its full-frame sensor delivered beautiful images with excellent dynamic range, and the reliable autofocus ensured I captured all the important moments. The improved low-light performance was particularly valuable during the reception, where lighting was challenging.
For a wildlife photography workshop, the D500 was my camera of choice. Its fast frame rate and advanced autofocus system allowed me to capture sharp images of birds in flight, and the APS-C crop factor provided extra reach with my telephoto lenses.
For a corporate portrait session, I brought both cameras and used them interchangeably. The D780 produced images with slightly better color depth and smoother tonal transitions, but the D500 was no slouch, delivering professional-quality results.
During a landscape photography trip, I found myself reaching for the D780 more often. The full-frame sensor captured more dynamic range, allowing me to recover shadow details while preserving highlight information in post-processing.
Who Should Buy Which Camera?
After extensive use of both cameras, I’ve developed clear recommendations for different types of photographers:
The Nikon D780 is ideal for:
- Portrait photographers who value the full-frame look and excellent low-light performance
- Wedding and event photographers who need reliable autofocus and good low-light capabilities
- Landscape photographers who require maximum dynamic range
- Hybrid shooters who want both high-quality stills and video
- Photographers who already own full-frame lenses and want to utilize them without a crop factor
The Nikon D500 is ideal for:
- Wildlife photographers who need fast frame rates and superior autofocus tracking
- Sports photographers who require a high-speed camera with a deep buffer
- Bird photographers who benefit from the APS-C crop factor for extra reach
- Action photographers who need a rugged, responsive camera
- Photographers on a budget who want professional-level performance at a lower price point
Pro Tips for Both Cameras
Whether you choose the D780 or D500, here are some tips I’ve learned that will help you get the most out of your camera:
For Nikon D780 Users:
- Take advantage of the silent photography mode in live view for discreet shooting during events.
- Use the highlight-weighted metering mode for high-contrast scenes to preserve highlight detail.
- Experiment with the flicker reduction feature when shooting under artificial lighting.
- Customize the buttons to match your shooting style for faster access to frequently used functions.
- Use the electronic front-curtain shutter to reduce vibration when shooting at slower shutter speeds.
For Nikon D500 Users:
- Take advantage of the group-area AF mode for tracking moving subjects.
- Use the DX crop factor to your advantage when shooting wildlife and sports.
- Customize the AF-C priority selection to choose between shutter release and focus priority.
- Use the 10-pin remote terminal for connecting to remote triggers and GPS units.
- Take advantage of the built-in intervalometer for time-lapse photography.
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Sample Images: What to Expect?
Both cameras produce excellent image quality, but with different characteristics:
Portrait Photography: The D780’s full-frame sensor produces portraits with beautiful background separation and smooth tonal transitions. Skin tones are rendered naturally, and the dynamic range allows for excellent detail recovery in post-processing.
Wildlife Photography: The D500 excels at capturing sharp images of wildlife, thanks to its fast autofocus and high frame rate. The APS-C crop factor provides extra reach, making distant subjects appear larger in the frame.
Landscape Photography: The D780’s full-frame sensor captures more dynamic range, allowing for greater flexibility in post-processing. Highlights and shadows can be recovered more effectively, resulting in more natural-looking landscape images.
Sports Photography: The D500’s fast frame rate and advanced autofocus system make it ideal for capturing decisive moments in sports. The deep buffer allows for extended bursts without slowing down.
FAQ: Nikon D780 vs D500
Which camera has better image quality?
The D780 generally produces better image quality due to its full-frame sensor, which offers better dynamic range and low-light performance. However, the D500’s 20.9MP APS-C sensor still delivers excellent image quality that meets professional standards.
Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
The D500 is generally better for wildlife photography due to its faster frame rate, superior autofocus tracking, and APS-C crop factor that provides extra reach with telephoto lenses.
Can I use my existing lenses with both cameras?
Both cameras use Nikon’s F-mount and are compatible with all F-mount lenses. However, when using DX lenses on the D780, the camera automatically switches to DX crop mode, resulting in lower resolution images.
Which camera is better for video?
The D780 is better for video due to its ability to record 4K using the full width of its sensor, N-Log gamma profile, and improved live view autofocus performance.
Which camera has better battery life?
The D780 has better battery life, rated for approximately 2260 shots per charge compared to the D500’s 1240 shots per charge.
Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The D780 is better for low-light photography due to its full-frame sensor, which gathers more light and produces cleaner images at high ISO settings.
Which camera is better for sports photography?
The D500 is better for sports photography due to its faster frame rate, deeper buffer, and superior autofocus tracking for fast-moving subjects.
Conclusion: Making Your Choice
After extensive use of both the Nikon D780 and D500, I can confidently say that both are exceptional cameras that deliver professional results. The choice between them comes down to your specific needs as a photographer.
If you primarily shoot portraits, weddings, events, or landscapes, the D780’s full-frame sensor and better low-light performance make it the better choice. Its superior video capabilities also make it ideal for hybrid shooters who need both high-quality stills and video.
If you specialize in wildlife, sports, or action photography, the D500’s faster frame rate, superior autofocus system, and APS-C crop factor make it the more suitable option. Its lower price point also makes it an attractive choice for photographers on a budget.
Ultimately, the best camera is the one that helps you capture the images you envision. Both the D780 and D500 are capable of producing stunning images that will elevate your photography – the rest is just personal preference and specific needs.