The Nikon D500 is a legendary APS-C DSLR camera that was released in 2016 to great acclaim. It was praised for its exceptional image quality, fast autofocus, and impressive video capabilities. Many photographers consider it one of the best cameras Nikon has ever made. However, with the rise of mirrorless cameras and the introduction of new models, many are wondering: is Nikon still making the D500?
A Brief History of the Nikon D500
Before we dive into the question of whether the D500 is still in production, let’s take a brief look at its history. The D500 was announced in January 2016, and it was a significant upgrade to the previous D300s model. It featured a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor, 153 autofocus points, and the ability to shoot 4K video. The camera was designed for sports and wildlife photographers, as well as enthusiasts who wanted a high-quality camera that could keep up with their fast-paced shooting style.
The D500 was an instant hit, and it quickly became one of the most popular cameras among professionals and hobbyists alike. It was praised for its excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and impressive battery life. The camera was also highly customizable, with a range of settings and features that allowed photographers to fine-tune their shooting experience.
The Current State of the Nikon D500
Fast-forward to 2023, and the camera landscape has changed significantly. Mirrorless cameras have become increasingly popular, and many manufacturers have shifted their focus to producing these types of cameras. Nikon has also introduced new mirrorless models, such as the Z6 and Z7, which have garnered a lot of attention.
So, what about the D500? Is it still in production, or has Nikon discontinued it in favor of newer models? The answer is a bit complicated.
Nikon has officially discontinued the D500, but it’s still available for purchase from many retailers. This means that while Nikon is no longer producing new units, there are still plenty of cameras in stock that can be bought from authorized dealers.
Why Did Nikon Discontinue the D500?
There are a few reasons why Nikon may have decided to discontinue the D500. One reason is the shift towards mirrorless cameras. With the rise of mirrorless technology, many photographers are opting for these types of cameras over traditional DSLRs. Nikon has invested heavily in its mirrorless lineup, and it’s likely that the company wants to focus on promoting these models.
Another reason is the introduction of newer APS-C cameras, such as the Nikon D7500. The D7500 is a more affordable option that still offers excellent image quality and many of the same features as the D500. By discontinuing the D500, Nikon may be trying to simplify its product lineup and make it easier for customers to choose between different models.
What Does This Mean for Photographers?
So, what does this mean for photographers who are interested in buying the D500? Here are a few things to consider:
Availability
As mentioned earlier, the D500 is still available for purchase from many retailers. However, supplies are limited, and it’s unclear how long these cameras will remain in stock. If you’re interested in buying a D500, it’s a good idea to act quickly to ensure that you can get your hands on one.
Pricing
With the discontinuation of the D500, prices for the camera have dropped significantly. You can now buy a brand-new D500 for around $1,000, which is a steal considering its exceptional image quality and features.
Support and Updates
Although the D500 is no longer in production, Nikon will still provide support and updates for the camera. This means that you can still expect to receive firmware updates and technical support from Nikon if you experience any issues with your camera.
Alternatives to the Nikon D500
If you’re in the market for a new camera and can’t find a D500, there are several alternatives to consider. Here are a few options:
Nikon D7500
The Nikon D7500 is a more affordable APS-C DSLR that offers many of the same features as the D500. It has a 20.9-megapixel sensor, 51 autofocus points, and can shoot 4K video. The D7500 is a great option for photographers who want a high-quality camera without breaking the bank.
Sony Alpha a6400
The Sony Alpha a6400 is a mirrorless APS-C camera that offers impressive autofocus and video capabilities. It has a 24.2-megapixel sensor, 425 autofocus points, and can shoot 4K video at 30fps. The a6400 is a great option for photographers who want a compact and lightweight camera that still delivers excellent image quality.
Conclusion
The Nikon D500 is an exceptional camera that has captured the hearts of many photographers. Although it’s no longer in production, there are still plenty of cameras available for purchase from authorized dealers. With its exceptional image quality, fast autofocus, and impressive video capabilities, the D500 is still a great option for photographers who want a high-quality camera that can keep up with their fast-paced shooting style. If you can’t find a D500, there are several alternatives to consider, including the Nikon D7500 and Sony Alpha a6400.
Is the Nikon D500 still in production?
The Nikon D500 was announced in January 2016, and it has been one of the most popular APS-C sensor cameras on the market. However, as of 2022, the camera is no longer in production. Nikon has officially discontinued the D500, and it is no longer available for purchase from their website or authorized dealers.
It’s worth noting that even though the camera is no longer in production, it’s still widely available from third-party sellers and online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and others. Additionally, many retailers may still have new or refurbished units in stock, so it’s still possible to purchase a D500 if you’re interested.
Why did Nikon discontinue the D500?
Nikon discontinued the D500 as part of their ongoing efforts to streamline their product lineup and focus on newer, more advanced models. The D500 was a very successful camera, but it was also a relatively old model, and Nikon likely wanted to make room for newer cameras with more advanced features and technology.
Additionally, the D500 was also facing increased competition from other camera manufacturers, particularly in the mirrorless camera market. With the rise of mirrorless cameras, many photographers have been switching from DSLRs like the D500 to mirrorless models, which may have contributed to a decline in sales and demand for the camera.
Is the Nikon D500 still a good camera?
Absolutely! The Nikon D500 is still an excellent camera, even though it’s no longer in production. It features a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor, fast autofocus, and excellent video capabilities. It’s also extremely durable and weather-sealed, making it a great choice for photographers who shoot in challenging conditions.
In fact, the D500 is still considered one of the best APS-C sensor cameras on the market, and it’s still widely used by many professional photographers and enthusiasts. If you’re in the market for a high-quality camera and don’t need the latest and greatest features, the D500 is definitely worth considering.
What are the alternatives to the Nikon D500?
If you’re in the market for a camera similar to the D500, there are several alternatives to consider. One option is the Nikon Z fc, which is a mirrorless camera that features a similar APS-C sensor and many of the same features as the D500. Another option is the Fujifilm X-T4, which is a high-end mirrorless camera that offers excellent video capabilities and fast autofocus.
You could also consider the Canon EOS 90D, which is a DSLR camera that features a similar APS-C sensor and many of the same features as the D500. Ultimately, the best alternative will depend on your specific needs and preferences, so it’s worth doing some research and comparing different models before making a decision.
Can I still get warranty or support for the Nikon D500?
Yes, even though the D500 is no longer in production, Nikon still offers warranty and support for the camera. If you purchase a new or refurbished D500, you’ll typically be eligible for a manufacturer’s warranty, which will cover repairs and replacements for defects or malfunctions.
Additionally, Nikon still offers technical support and repair services for the D500, even though it’s no longer in production. This means that if you have any issues with your camera, you can still contact Nikon for assistance or send it in for repair.
Will Nikon release a successor to the D500?
There has been no official word from Nikon on a successor to the D500, but it’s possible that they may release a new camera that builds on the D500’s features and technology. Nikon has been focusing on their mirrorless camera lineup in recent years, so it’s possible that any future successor to the D500 would be a mirrorless model.
That being said, Nikon has not ruled out the possibility of releasing new DSLR cameras in the future, so it’s possible that we could see a new APS-C sensor DSLR from Nikon at some point. However, at this point, there is no concrete information available on a potential D500 successor.
Is the Nikon D500 still worth buying?
Yes, the Nikon D500 is still worth buying, even though it’s no longer in production. The camera is still widely available from third-party sellers and online marketplaces, and it’s often available at a discounted price. This makes it an excellent value for photographers who want a high-quality camera without breaking the bank.
Additionally, the D500 is still a very capable camera that can produce excellent results, especially in the hands of a skilled photographer. If you’re looking for a durable, feature-packed camera that can handle a wide range of photography tasks, the D500 is definitely worth considering.