D5000D

A quick comparison between Nikon D5000 and Canon 500D.

Overall, apart from pixel count and LCD, the cameras specs are very similar. The 500D is a bit of a paradox: it’s a shrunken 50D plus HD video. Also really need additional investment in terms of good lenses (primes and fast zoom) to make best use of its hi-res sensor. So the question arises, if you don’t need video function and can dish a bit more money why not get the 50D which is more substantial camera with better viewfinder?

Concerning video capture, the EOS boast full HD capability. However, in both cameras the video function is complex and quite limited with no more than 24 images/sec in best case, limited or no focus, etc. Clearly this is still MK I of the integration of this function into DSLR. For the moment (or rather near future), the best compromise between picture quality, video function and handling seems the Lumix GH1.

Both cameras are compact and light to wandering around all day, if you carry only one lens or short zoom. In terms of kit lenses, the Nikon is a bit better although probably would be even better with 16-85VR (costs the same as the camera) or with new 35 AFS DX. The EOS may offer the best image quality for the price if shot in Raw at low to moderate ISO with good lenses. Nikon may be better all-rounder for the price.

Item	D5000	500D
Sensor	12 Mpix CMOS – 12 bits	15 Mpix CMOS –14bits
LCD	Lower res 2.7” vari-angle	High res 3”
Kit lens	18-55 VR - better optic	18-55 IS
Live view	Slightly faster focus dedicated button	dedicated button
AF module	11 points - better	9 points
High ISO*	good - better detail retention above 800	good - reach 12800 (but ok…)
Handling (personal view)	Slightly better	what? no click-wheel!
Extras	some corrections in camera (perspective, Raw, color fringes, etc.)
Battery autonomy CIPA	500 shots	400 shots
Depth of field	no button, via menu	dedicated button
Grip	Not Nikon official	standard BG-E5
Use Nikon lenses	All F lenses, will focus only AFS	All F non-G, through third party adapter ring, manual only
Use Canon Lenses	N/A	EF/EFS
viewfinder	slightly better – wt custom grid	small
Video	720p - no focus	full HD - limited focus
Price with kit (body only) est.	850 (700)	900 (800)

* From Camera labs, note tests with kit lens and standard Jpegs