Nikon Coolpix P500 Vs P510: The Battle Of The Superzooms

The Nikon Coolpix P500 and P510 are two popular bridge cameras that offer a wide range of features for both casual and advanced photographers. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences between these two cameras, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for your needs.

Sensor and Image Quality

Both the P500 and P510 feature a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor. However, the P510 has a slightly larger sensor size (1/1.7 inches vs. 1/2.3 inches), which results in better image quality, especially in low-light conditions.

Lens and Zoom Range

One of the key advantages of bridge cameras is their versatile zoom range. The P500 offers an impressive 36x optical zoom (22.5-810mm equivalent), while the P510 has a slightly wider 42x optical zoom (24-1000mm equivalent). This extra zoom range on the P510 allows you to capture distant subjects with greater detail.

Image Stabilization

Both the P500 and P510 feature optical image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images. However, the P510 has a more advanced vibration reduction system, which provides better stabilization, especially when using the telephoto zoom range.

Autofocus and Performance

The P500 and P510 both offer fast and accurate autofocus systems. However, the P510 has a slight edge in this area, thanks to its faster processor and more advanced algorithms. This results in quicker autofocus times and improved subject tracking, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras can shoot Full HD 1080p videos at 30fps. However, the P510 offers a few additional video features, including stereo sound recording and the ability to shoot slow-motion videos at 120fps.

Connectivity and Sharing

The P500 and P510 both support Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, allowing you to easily transfer images and videos to your smartphone or tablet. The P510 also features built-in GPS, which allows you to geotag your photos and videos with location data.

Other Features

Both cameras offer a range of additional features, including:

• Vari-angle LCD screen: Tilting and swiveling LCD screen for flexible shooting angles.
• Built-in flash: Pop-up flash for additional illumination in low-light conditions.
• Scene modes: Pre-programmed settings for various shooting scenarios.
• Customizable buttons: Assign frequently used functions to dedicated buttons for quick access.

Summary: Which Camera is Right for You?

The Nikon Coolpix P500 and P510 are both excellent bridge cameras that offer a wide range of features for photography enthusiasts. If you prioritize image quality, zoom range, and video capabilities, the Nikon P510 is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a slightly smaller zoom range, the Nikon P500 is still a solid choice.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Which camera has better low-light performance?
A: The Nikon P510 has a larger sensor size, which results in better image quality, especially in low-light conditions.

Q: What is the difference in zoom range between the two cameras?
A: The Nikon P510 has a slightly wider zoom range (42x) compared to the Nikon P500 (36x).

Q: Which camera has a more advanced autofocus system?
A: The Nikon P510 has a faster autofocus system with improved subject tracking capabilities.

Q: Can either camera shoot RAW images?
A: Yes, both the Nikon P500 and P510 can shoot RAW images, giving you more flexibility in post-processing.

Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Nikon P500 has a slightly longer battery life than the Nikon P510, with approximately 250 shots on a single charge compared to 230 shots.