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Nikon D5000 vs. Canon EOS Rebel T1i (500D): Best of the Entry Level DSLRs
With the announcement of the Nikon D5000 and the Canon EOS Rebel T1i (referred to here as the Canon 500D), entry-level consumers and prospective digital SLR camera purchasers now have 2 incredible choices from the number one an two camera manufacturers, both featuring the ability to shoot HD video, and both priced safely under $1000 with an included lens. Either camera would make a great first DSLR, but to help with the choosing (or perhaps to complicate it further) I’ve compiled some of the highs and lows of both cameras, as well as feature and specifications comparisons.
[Note: We've finished a comprehensive review of the Nikon D5000, available right here.]
The Nikon D5000 starts the race seemingly a bit behind the Canon 500D (at least on paper) with a 12.3 megapixel sensor, the same one in fact that Nikon uses in the D90. Like its bigger brother, the D5000 uses the same or at least very similar EXPEED processor and keeps its 12 bit A/D conversion which theoretically points to less dynamic range and color depth than provided by the Canon 500D’s 14 bit A/D. Meanwhile the Canon 500D borrows its sensor and processing from the Canon 50D, in other words a 15.1 megapixel sensor with 14 bit A/D conversion and DIGIC IV processing. The Nikon lists an ISO range of 200-3200 with a boost option of 100-6400, while the 500D lists an expanded ISO range of 100-12800. So given the specifications, we can safely assume the Canon 500D takes the better picture right? Probably not, and here’s why. If we work with the given ancestries of the 2 cameras, the Nikon D90 and the Canon 50D, its quite possible that the D5000 will meet or exceed the 500D in image quality (though in real world results the actual printed results will very likely be quite comparable). Using scores provided by DXOmark.com, the D90 has superior color depth, low light ISO, and dynamic range for an overall sensor score of 72 versus the Canon 50D’s 62.9. It’s true that the 500D does bring superior resolution to this challenge, but the very slight edge provided in image detail comes at the cost of additional noise at higher ISO sensitivities. In short when it comes to IQ, the numbers alone don’t tell the whole story and I suspect that overall, the Nikon D5000 compares quite favorably to the Canon 500D, and likely provides superior results at higher ISO.
Moving on to some other aspects of both cameras, the Nikon D5000 has a somewhat more advanced AF system using 11 points against the Canon 500D’s 9 point AF. Both utilize one center cross-hair type sensor, which typically means focusing and recomposing for best results. Both cameras also offer comparable AF area modes, and in general I suspect that the two camera are essentially equal to the task of getting sharp pictures. When it comes to live view, both camera have it and both use contrast detect for AF duties in live view. The Canon additionally offers phase detect, which normally is faster than contrast detect, but in practice on the Canon 500D, is still somewhat slow. Therefore, both cameras are somewhat slow to focus in live view, and as such, live view usage might best be used on a tripod. The edge though goes to the Canon 500D whose live view features are more robust with grid overlays, and zoom features, that when combined with its much higher resolution LCD display, allow for getting critical focus much easier.
Speaking of LCD displays, the 2 cameras have taken 2 distinct approaches. In the case of the 500D, Canon has provided a 920k resolution, 3 inch display that provides a very crisp and clear picture, ideal for analyzing photographs, viewing movies, and as mentioned before, achieving critical focus. The Nikon D5000 takes a totally different approach, and provides an articualting display that flip down and rotates. The resolution of the LCD is only 230K though, and is smaller in size at 2.7 inches. This articulated display obviously allows for more creative use of the Nikon D5000, especially when paired with shooting video. Unfortunately, it also might create some issues when used with a tripod due to the hinge location, and users will need to be careful in handling the camera, mindful of the positioning of the LCD relative to other surfaces.
Finally a few words on video. While the 500D does list 1080p as an option, just be aware that this of the 20 fps variety, in other words, playback may be less than smooth. Therefore in actual likely use, both cameras basically shoot 720p video, the Canon 500D at 30 fps, the Nikon D5000 at 24 fps. The Canon 500D has a time limit of nearly 30 minutes or 4 GB of data, while the Nikon D5000 shoots in HD for 5 minute clips. In reality though, since neither camera has AF once video begins, shooting video for longer than very short clips should be avoided. For now, video on a DSLR should be thought of as taking a moving picture and as such 5 minutes is more than enough time. Additionally– and unfortunately, neither camera records stereo sound nor anyway of capturing it via input — ala the Canon EOS 5D Mark II.
The superior camera? If fun factor is your main concern the Nikon D5000 certainly fits the bill. With built in image editing options, and the articulated LCD it seems ideal for a family looking to record trips, family events, and special occasions. On the other hand the Canon Rebel T1i (or 500D) seems ideal for the budding photographer ready to move up into the financial sink hole that is DSLR photography. With the ability to capture more detail, and beautifully large and crisp LCD display, it seems to take a more serious approach to taking great photos. More objectively though, either camera will likely lead to great results, and honestly it’s amazing what the camera makers are offering customers at this price point relative to just a couple of years ago.
Front View
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Rear View
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Sensor
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Nikon D5000 |
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File Sizes/File Formats/Video
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formats |
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Nikon D5000 |
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Processing/AF Points/AF Modes
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Nikon D5000 |
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Viewfinder/Display
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LCD Resolution |
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Nikon D5000 |
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FPS/ISO/Live View
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Nikon D5000 |
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Dimensions/Weight/Price
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Nikon D5000 |
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For a direct image quality comparison of the 2 cameras, head no further than Imaging Resource’s invaluable “Comparometer”. You’ll note the additional detail captured by the Canon 500D, and for the most part very close ISO performance.
(Note: We’re reviewing the Nikon D5000 right now and have posted some early analysis and ISO samples here)
Got an opinion? Love to hear it in the comments!
The Canon EOS Rebel T1i is available for order:
or check prices at Amazon, B&H Photo, Adorama.
Nikon D5000:
pre-order at Amazon
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if the nikon d5000 had the same pixel count, id go for nikon.
Pixel?
It’s old count. Pixel is not much important to dSLR stuffs.
Both D5000 and T1i is great. But As details in Test Photo Samples, D5000 seems greater.
Hey Patrick,
Here are some images from my Canon Rebel T1i. All these were taken from kit lens and no post filtering.
Link – http://www.igoy.in/snaps-from-canon-rebel-t1i-with-the-kit-lens/
Just bought Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 for $90. You can expect some shallow depth of field images soon
I guess nikon is good ..
Just because of that vary-angle LCD ..
The difference in Mega Pixel & ISO are really hopeless..
Great article, it helped a lot our decision process.
Especially the clear bottom line: fun factor -> nikon, more serious introduction to dslr photography -> Canon
Thanks,
Diego from Texas
As far as image quality goes, The D5000 is definitely superior. I don’t care so much for video and the pixel count does not really matter if you aren’t planning on constantly printing images. Even so, 12.1 is more than enough if you wish to go that rout. So I’d definitely go for the D5000 because of the image quality.
I have been looking for a DSLR that can take great pics. I have read quite a ffew reviews and was left undecided but this article has helped me to maake up my mind.Nikkon D5000!!!!!
thanks.
Great article and timely, thank you. But it has to come down to more than a coin flip. Can you elaborate on the operation of the cameras? I am betting that one has to be easier to use than the other and by that I mean menu options and layout, intuitive setting layout, etc. So when I’m swapping lenses and settings, which one will be easier for me to learn and be comfortable with? Please share your thoughts. Thanks again for your efforts.
I don’t know about the canon, but the nikon d5000 is easy to learn with the built in help screens and easy navigating menus.
I appreciate your input Josh. BTW, already picked the D5000 and absolutely love it. Just trying to figure out the ins and outs so I can go beyond the ‘auto’ setting.
i love nikon d5ooo . It’s a beutiful body …
Nikon D5000 is superior to the Canon. It has less pixel count because the pixels are larger than the ones on the canon, this allows less noise and the ability to capture more light. Canon just stuffed pixels on there chip and hurt image quality to make a buck off of unknowing consumers.
hey frnds,
have u used Nikon D 5000. how is the camera? I enquired for D 5k from a vendor, he says nikon has closed selling D5K he insisted for cannon 500 for 40K. By the way, any idea abt the price for D5K with lens? u can also reach me at palash737@gmail.com
Palash, picked this camera up about 3 weeks ago after 2 months of studying and researching. Absolutely love this camera — very cool.
Patrick,
though i am just a starter in this area,but willing to go ahead in this field.
so i am still confused which should i go D5000 or Canon?
If choosing between the Rebel T2i and the D5000, get the T2i… no question. Between the T1i and the D5000, I’d still opt for the T1i, even though I like the formfactor and feel in the hands of the D5000. But really the camera here to get, right now, is the T2i I think.
i dont have any cameras yet, i just got interested in photography late last year and with all the research and comparison it goes this way, imagine you have 2 cell phones a nokia unit=(D5000) and a blackberry unit=(500D) which one will you use?for me its the d5000 with its friendly user features you can browes easily and learn alot of things for me d5000 with its stock lens 18-55 vr turned out to be great, and when you are willing or craving for a telephoto lens grab the 2007 release af-s dx vr 18-200mm if ed lens which is around $250 here in our country philippines, frankly speaking if we are interested in entering into photography what will be our major concern?, for me its enjoyment, shooting all the happy moments and all the wonderful scenes, which you can do in d5000 alot easier, REMEMBER WITH NIKON D5000 CREATIVITY IS A CHILD’S PLAY ^^ GO NIKON D5000 RED DOT AWARDEE FOR PRODUCT DESIGN OUT OF 4000 items you turned out to be the “SUPERIOR”
It seems to me from the pictures uploaded to Amazon.com from consumers that the Rebel is better. I just hate the idea of owning a camera named rebel. I know that’s a terrible, immature excuse, but it is. I’m now trying to figure out if Canon is overall better than Nikon. I was going to go with the D5000, but Patrick even said to get the Rebel. Now I’m even more confused.
Alejo,
I dislike the “Rebel” name as well, in fact when I got my first DSLR I opted for a Nikon D80 over a Rebel, in part because of the naming…Now I prefer the T1i’s LCD, it is enough for me to get the Rebel over the D5000, I just like a nice hi-res display for doing tripod work, etc. That’s really my biggest issue with the D5000, otherwise we had a really good time with it, like the pictures it takes, and prefer the way it feels, etc.
Patrick,
I’m glad we dislike the childish name.
For my first DSLR I’m sure that I’ll be fine with the display resolution. Though, the D90 has a much better display; It might be an option. The only difference that worries me is the picture/photo quality, but I’m not 100% sure. Like is said, and now I’ll ask. Does the Rebel have a better picture/photo quality? Enough to make it or break it…
Alejandro,
I always recommend moving up where possible to the next camera in the chain, if you think you’d like the D5000, you will love the D90. Note in my situation I had considered buying the Nikon D300, but moved up to the 5D2 instead (long story….). That said, no the rebel doesn’t offer better IQ, in fact I like the D5000 IQ better as just a subjective matter of taste. On paper, the two offer essentially no differences though. If you get the D5000, I wouldn’t be thinking you’d given up anything on IQ.
Of course I’d be thinking a D90 replacement could be coming along anyday now, and perhaps it’d be prudent to wait and see, but that’s a different story.
Yeah, I’m pretty much broke. That’s why the low price range is best.
Why pass on the D300s?
I’ll like to stay with Nikon. Do you now consider Canon to be a better choice? Or.
From the link bellow the Rebel seems to have the better IQ.
http://www.digitalreview.ca/content/Nikon-D5000-D90-Compared-to-Canon-Rebel-T1i-500D.shtml But I’ll believe you.
What do you know about the new D90? I’ve been trying to find info of upcoming Nikon Camera’s, but nothing. Not even in nikonrumors.com
Patrick,
i have gone further deep in confusion,
i am getting a good deal here for Nikon D90 here..
what you suggest should i go for this deal or should i choose T2i??
That’s a tough one, I’d probably opt for the T2i or consider waiting for the D90 replacement. I wouldn’t get a D90 at this point so late in its product cycle…of course if one were to get a really good deal that might be different. If video didn’t matter at all, then I’d lean towards the D90.
Thanks Patrick!!
since the cost of both are almost same here in INDIA and i am not concerned at all about video Quality nor i think i am going to use any video capability to any extend..
All i want that since this is my first DSLR i am not thinking to replace for next 4-5 years so will go for any deal taking in to account availability of Lenses and other accessory in the future
Umesh,
Where did you buy D90 in India? I am from Bangalore and I’m planning to go for D90 as well. After roo much reading and comparing with D5000, I will go for D90 if I get a good deal. For how much did u buy it for. Do tell me your reviews.
Vishwas,
Due to some reason i have not bought that yet..but it has good review..last time when i checked it price it was around 55K but yes what i came to know is that 550D also have good feedback..
i am planning to get it by August..if u happen to buy this please do share your feedback as well as the cost
PATRICK
im really confused, between the nikon d5000 & canon eos 500d, so please tell me ur opinion, which one do u think is better in hq images, & i read someone wrote that the d5000 lcd is not good enough for tripod work. my problem is im from egypt & these cameras are very expensive, so i really need the best……pleeeease help me.
Theodore,
there are minor differences in image quality, they both take good pictures, though I prefer the D5000 in most cases just a tiny bit. Printed on paper they are very close, so close that other issues should be more important, the LCD, video, etc. Some people will like the tilt LCD, while I prefer the hi-res LCD of the 500D and it’s cleaner magnified view while in Live View. The D5000 definitely feels better in the hands, better grip etc. I guess the point is you don’t have to really about image quality between these two, either way you’ll get similar results.
Hi guys, it is obvious that its tough to chose between these two. Surely it all comes down to the lenses chosen. Pls assist me with the 2 kit options available, namely: D5000 with 18-55VR and 55-200VR, 550D with 18-55IS and 55-250IS.
I’m not sure of the quality of these lens kits? Thanks, Andrew
good day guys!!!
well, im planning to get my first DSLR camera and my choices are the Nikon d5000 and canon 500d..500d is more expensive than the d5000 why is it??and one more thing, is it true that when a DSLR reach its maximum number of shots it wiil die?? how many shots does the 500d and d5000 has??? and can anyone pls tell me which of the 2 DSLR models are better and why..
i know im asking too much but pls understand that i want spend my money wisely like anyone else and im a noobie in photography.
i always wanted to do photograhy but i dont have a camera,now that i have the capability to buy one i want to invest on one good DSLR for my start…
pls reply guys! appriciated!!
Ralph,
A question often asked, but as before either of the two will deliver roughly the same results, IQ wise that is. No need to fret about that aspect. The two are so close, I think its best to pick one up and see which one you think feels better, and check out the LCDs. I think the D5000 feels better in the hands, but I like the LCD of the 500D much better, it makes it easier to manually focus in live view and I think the video might be a bit better too. The differences in IQ will be minimal though–so no need to stress over making the “wrong” decision.
Hi Patrick,
I am purchasing my first D-SLR camera and have done extensive research and I am totally confused. We just got back from the store and I still don’t know. Since I have no basis knowledge to really know which “feels” better, which would you get, the T2i & the D5000? The price difference doesn’t matter. Thanks so much!
Marissa,
No question, I’d get the T2i….it’s the best entry level available.
hi marissa,if price doesnt matter for u, then think of nikon d90 too..
Hey there! I’m looking for my first DSLR and I’ve been doing a lot of research on the Nikon D5000 and Canon 550D. On paper, the canon definitely sounds MUCH MUCH better. But somehow, I feel that the Nikon is right, however weird that may sound. I am also pretty troubled about the Nikon’s low-res screen though but i like the D5000’s button placement much more than canon.
Some help needed, nikon does not have quick access buttons for ISO , white balance etc while the canon does. To what extent will this slow me down (the nikon) because i have heard that the nikon user interface is really great and intuitive. THANKS!
hi chinese boy,if u r confused bw d5000 and 550d ,thn go for 550d.if u r more concernd abt easy user interface,thn go for d5000.
also think abt the budget.d5000 much cheaper than 550d
Hi Patrick,
Im a bit confused whetherto buy a nikon d5000 or not. Im gettin a 3 months used d5000 with the kit lens.
Do you think this camera is worth.
also kindly suggest a good 50mm macro lens for canon 1000d
will it be ES F 50mm OR ES 50mm ?
which one is good?
Thanks.
Regards,
Hello, I am considering one of these two cameras. I am on a budget and was originally looking at the rebel XS and D3000. First of all, am I much better off looking at this price range? It really is not that much more money and I think with both manufacturers you get more for the money at this range. I am leaning towards the Nikon for the simple fact that I already own an N80 film camera that I am very satisfied with. For that camera I have 2 lenses, a 70-300 f 4-5.6 and a 28-80 f 3.3-5.6 both of which are entry level models and do not have the Auto focus system the d5000 requires. However, I do have experiences with manually focusing, and for the limited situations in which I would use the telephoto I would not mind doing it that way. I do not care much about the resolution of the screen as I will be primarily shooting through the viewfinder and uploading straight to the computer pretty quickly. I am simply wondering if the Canon is so much better that I should look that way despite of the inherit advantages of sticking with Nikon.
hi kylie, for u,the best option is nikon d5000..
Kyle,
No, the Canon isn’t “so much better”, you’ll be fine with a D3000, but I’d strongly consider moving up to the D5000, better IQ for sure, better feature set, better camera.
Hi patrik,
pl tell me why we could shoot for 5 minutes in d5000 where as canon it is 30 minutes. i think all depends on memory we use. isnt it?
hi patrik ,i’ve some doubts,plz clear it..
1,memory cards available with both kits?..or should we have to buy seperately?
2,also up to hw much the memory expansion in both(if we need extra memory)?
3,raw processing software available with the kit? or should we have to buy seperately in both?
Thnks&Rgrds,
Jackson
jackson,
usually the memory is separate, though some stores put together their own packages. For either camera you’ll want a couple of 4 gb cards I would say, depending on how much video you might be taking. Both cameras come with basic software, but you’ll want something better very soon. We like Lightroom 3 or Aperture 3 for processing AND organizing our photos.
Hi Patrick, reading all the comments and I have just begun researching the D5000/T2i. I began by looking at the D3000/Sony 550 and Canon EOS Rebel XS. With all this said, I think my decision lies with the first 2 mentioned. My conundrum is, I’m using points for this purchase and I can either get the T2i by itself or the D5000 kit with the 55-200 lens as a package. Would you consider the extra zoom lens with the D5000 to be a better option than getting the T2i camera only? I’m trying to get a more expert opinion as I have learned just enough to really be confused as to which way to go. Thanks for any help you can provide!
Dale,
I’d still get the T2i.
Hi Patrick, i am interested in getting a Nikon or a canon for around
700-1000 dollars. I was wandering if i should wait for December or get one now. Do you think that canon and Nikon will launch replacements for the 50d and the d90 resp. this fall or should i just pick them up now?
I’d really expect a D90 replacement for sure this year, Photokina is in October, so I’d say in a few months we should see something new from Nikon. I’m less confident about a 50D replacement, since Canon is doing so well with the T2i (550D) and the 7D, but I suppose its possible.
Hello!
I’m 16 years old and I would like to get into photography. (either outside or in-school course) I’ve always loved taking pictures of everything, but have never really had a professional camera (DSLR).
I originally looked at the D90, and my dad agreed to get it for me. But after seeing it and holding it, I realised its really big and i wont use the extra features. So, now im stuck with the Nikon D5000 or the Rebel t1i. I l really like the high quality screen on the canon, and i dont think the on-camera editing things on the nikon will be very important because i have photoshop and iphoto which are convenient. But, the pre-set scene modes may be very usefull? I dont really like the nikon swivel screen (to me it kindof makes it look less..idk it seems to look cheap or something to me) BUT, my dad and friend both agree that it is soo practical when i dont see why i would be using it. Is the IQ difference noticable? Does the nikon feel alot better in your hands? Thanks in advance for the help!
Hi patrick
i am confused with nikon d5000 and canon d500. i want longer HD VIDEO Coverage. Is it possible with more memory card? help me.
Hey Patrick…
This is my 1st SLR camera and trying to make my decision on either the T2i or D5000, What is your opinion?? Also opting to purchase the 18-200 lense for around $700.
Bob,
I say it all the time, I’d get the T2i myself, it’s the best entry level camera out there (today), but the form factor is not as nice as the D5000.
Patrick, you must be a busy man looking at all the replies. Hopefully, you get paid for this and if you don’t, thanks in advance for your time!
I bought a Canon T1i a month ago with the 18-55 lens kit. 3 things that matter to me in photography are pic. quality, zoom & weight. T1i does a fantastic job with indoor pics/low light pics. However, ironically enough, outdoor pics are not very sharp. Even my $200 Nikon point & shoot did a similar job. I did use my friend’s D90 for a few days but that is very heavy to carry around. I was thinking of exchanging T1i for Nikon D5000 but with a 18-105mm lens since D5000 body is less heavy than D90. Do you think that is a good idea or could it be that I’m not using my T1i with correct settings to give me sharp outdoor pics?
hey patrick
i know the question has been asked to death, but i am really confused between nikon D5000 and canon rebel t1i…i hope you can help me out a bit, i checked the photo samples and t1i shots atthe same settings seemed a bit overexposed, i liked nikon’s quality better, i want to know that is it true that d5000 is nowhere close to a good dslr and its only barely entry level?? where as t1i is entry to intermediate??