Overview
- The Nikon B500 features a built-in flash and a variety of scene modes, while the Sony HX400V has a built-in GPS and a built-in microphone.
- However, if you prefer a larger sensor for better low-light performance, built-in GPS, and a more compact design, the Sony HX400V is the camera for you.
- The Sony HX400V has a larger sensor than the Nikon B500, which gives it a slight edge in low-light performance.
In the realm of superzoom cameras, two giants stand tall: the Nikon B500 and the Sony HX400V. With their impressive optical zoom capabilities and advanced features, these cameras offer photographers an unparalleled level of versatility and flexibility. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Nikon B500 and Sony HX400V, helping you make an informed decision about which one is the perfect fit for your photographic needs.
Optical Zoom and Image Quality
The Nikon B500 boasts an impressive 40x optical zoom, spanning from 22.5mm to 900mm (35mm equivalent). This remarkable range allows you to capture distant subjects with incredible detail and clarity. The Sony HX400V, on the other hand, offers a slightly shorter 50x optical zoom, ranging from 24mm to 1200mm (35mm equivalent). While this zoom range is still impressive, it may not be as suitable for capturing extremely distant subjects.
In terms of image quality, both cameras perform admirably. The Nikon B500 features a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Sony HX400V has a 20.4-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor. Both cameras produce sharp and detailed images, even at high zoom levels. However, the Sony HX400V has a slight edge in low-light performance due to its larger sensor size.
Electronic Viewfinder and LCD Screen
The Nikon B500 features a large and bright electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a resolution of 921k dots. This EVF provides a clear and accurate representation of the scene, even in bright sunlight. The Sony HX400V, however, does not have an EVF, which can be a disadvantage when composing images in bright conditions.
Both cameras have large and high-resolution LCD screens. The Nikon B500 has a 3-inch, 921k-dot LCD screen, while the Sony HX400V has a 3-inch, 922k-dot LCD screen. These screens offer excellent viewing angles and allow you to easily review your images and navigate the camera’s menu system.
Autofocus and Burst Shooting
The Nikon B500 utilizes a hybrid autofocus system that combines contrast-detect and phase-detect autofocus. This system provides fast and accurate autofocus, even in low-light conditions. The Sony HX400V also features a hybrid autofocus system, but it relies more heavily on contrast-detect autofocus. As a result, the Nikon B500 may have a slight advantage in terms of autofocus speed and accuracy.
In terms of burst shooting, the Nikon B500 can capture up to 7 frames per second (fps) for up to 100 shots. The Sony HX400V can capture up to 10 fps for up to 100 shots. Both cameras offer impressive burst shooting capabilities, making them suitable for capturing fast-paced action.
Connectivity and Features
The Nikon B500 offers built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily transfer images to your smartphone or tablet. The Sony HX400V also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but it additionally offers NFC (Near Field Communication) for quick and easy pairing with compatible devices.
Both cameras offer a variety of shooting modes and creative features. The Nikon B500 features a built-in flash and a variety of scene modes, while the Sony HX400V has a built-in GPS and a built-in microphone. Additionally, the Sony HX400V offers a unique “By Pixel Super Resolution” mode that can enhance the resolution of your images.
Summary: Making the Right Choice
The Nikon B500 and Sony HX400V are both excellent superzoom cameras with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. If you prioritize optical zoom range, autofocus speed, and an electronic viewfinder, the Nikon B500 is the better choice. However, if you prefer a larger sensor for better low-light performance, built-in GPS, and a more compact design, the Sony HX400V is the camera for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which camera has a longer optical zoom?
The Sony HX400V has a longer optical zoom (50x) than the Nikon B500 (40x).
2. Which camera has a better low-light performance?
The Sony HX400V has a larger sensor than the Nikon B500, which gives it a slight edge in low-light performance.
3. Which camera has an electronic viewfinder?
Only the Nikon B500 has an electronic viewfinder.
4. Which camera offers built-in GPS?
Only the Sony HX400V offers built-in GPS.
5. Which camera has a faster burst shooting speed?
Both cameras offer burst shooting speeds of up to 10 fps.