When the D500 arrived in 2016, it marked Nikon's most significant DX-format body in nearly a decade, bringing the autofocus system and processing architecture from the flagship D5 into a crop-sensor platform that redefined expectations for speed and tracking performance in an APS-C package. The 21-megapixel sensor delivered 5568 × 3712 pixel files with clean detail across its ISO 100-51200 native range, supporting the continuous shooting speeds and subject-tracking demands of sports and wildlife work where DX format reach advantages remained essential.
The 10 fps continuous shooting rate operated without mirror blackout interruption through the optical finder, maintaining subject visibility during fast sequences while the advanced autofocus system tracked erratic movement across the frame. Dual card slots accepted both SDXC and CompactFlash (XQD after firmware v.1.30), giving photographers flexible storage options and in-camera backup workflows during extended shooting sessions. The 200,000-cycle shutter mechanism and magnesium alloy weather sealing provided durability across outdoor assignments in variable conditions.
The optical viewfinder delivered 100% frame coverage at 1.0× magnification with a 16 mm eyepoint, offering clear composition and focus confirmation through the pentaprism design. The 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen with 1024 × 768 RGB resolution supported menu navigation and image review from varied shooting angles, while maintaining visibility in bright field conditions. The familiar control layout and EN-EL15 battery system integrated seamlessly into existing Nikon workflows for photographers already working within the F-mount ecosystem.
Wildlife photographers working with telephoto lenses found the DX format's 1.5× effective focal length multiplier extended reach without added weight, while sports shooters appreciated the combination of continuous shooting speed and reliable subject tracking across unpredictable action. The body's 147 × 115 × 81 mm dimensions and 860 g weight balanced substantial build quality with day-long handling comfort, and compatibility with E, AF, and AI lenses preserved access to decades of Nikon glass across documentary, event, and nature photography disciplines.
Metrics
| Release Year | 2016 |
|---|---|
| ISO | 100 - 51200 · 50 - 1.6M ISO |
| FPS | 10 · 200 fps |
| Weight | 860 g |
Descriptors
| Sensor | 21MP · DX · 5568 × 3712 MP |
|---|---|
| Shutter | 30 - 1/8000 · 1/250 · 200K |
| Finder | 100% · 1.0× · 16 mm |
| Screen | 3.2" tilting · 1024 x 768 · RGB |
| Storage | SDXC, Cf Ex B (FW v.1.30+) |
| Features | E, AF, AI |
| Size | 147 × 115 × 81 mm |
| Battery | EN-EL15 · 1240 / 2740 · MB-D17 |
Frequently asked questions
What sensor resolution and ISO range does the D500 offer?
The D500 features a 21-megapixel DX-format sensor capturing 5568 × 3712 pixel images, with a native ISO range of 100-51200 that delivers clean files across varied lighting conditions for action and wildlife photography.
What storage media and battery does the D500 use?
The D500 includes dual card slots supporting SDXC and CompactFlash (XQD compatibility added in firmware v.1.30 and later), with in-camera backup and overflow options. It uses the EN-EL15 rechargeable battery common across Nikon's professional DSLR lineup.
How fast can the D500 shoot continuously?
The D500 captures 10 frames per second in continuous high-speed mode, maintaining full autofocus and autoexposure tracking throughout the sequence to keep pace with fast-moving sports and wildlife subjects.
What are the dimensions and weight of the D500?
The D500 measures 147 × 115 × 81 mm and weighs 860 g body-only, delivering weather-sealed magnesium alloy construction in a package sized for extended handheld shooting with telephoto lenses.
What type of viewfinder does the D500 have?
The D500 uses an optical pentaprism viewfinder offering 100% frame coverage, 1.0× magnification, and a 16 mm eyepoint, paired with a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen with 1024 × 768 RGB resolution for live view and menu access.
Who is the D500 designed for?
The D500 serves sports, wildlife, and action photographers who need flagship-level autofocus performance and 10 fps shooting speed combined with the reach advantages of DX format, all in a weather-sealed body compatible with the full range of Nikon F-mount lenses.
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