Nikon D5000 Compared to D90 and Canon Rebel T1i / EOS 500D Side by Side

Updated May 2nd: List of respective advantages for the Nikon D90, the Nikon D5000 and the Canon Rebel T1i, as well as Nikon D5000 versus Canon Rebel T1i comparison sample images added.

(Original story, April 19th) Nikon's recent announcement of the 12.3MP Nikon D5000 adds a new camera to the digital SLR mix that also offers the option of 720p HD movie recording to complement still photography.

With features largely borrowed from the Nikon D90, the Nikon D5000 mainly differs in that it is designed to appeal more to those that are looking for a camera that centers around automatic user friendly operation, while incorporating similar technologies and delivering the same level of image quality provided by the Nikon D90. The D90 remains aimed at enthusiast level photographers that prefer more manual control options and an extended feature set.

That is not to say that the Nikon D5000 is not loaded with advanced capabilities, rather that the camera is specifically designed to appeal more to novice digital SLR users, providing easier to use Menu layouts and simplified buttons and controls. The inclusion of 19 automatic Scene shooting modes and the Vari-angle LCD monitor on the D5000, are features that have previously only been available on Nikon's Coolpix point and shoot cameras.

Based on general features and price points, the Canon Digital Rebel T1i / EOS 500D is the closest current competitor to the Nikon D5000 digital SLR.

If you are considering one of these cameras, we have now added individual lists highlighting the respective advantages of the Nikon D90, the Nikon D5000 and the Canon Rebel T1i. We have also included a few Nikon D5000 versus Canon Rebel T1i / EOS 500D side by side sample test shots to highlight the differences between these two particular models.

If you are looking to find out more detailed information about the features incorporated in these three cameras then jump to our Nikon D90 vs. Nikon D5000 compared to the Canon Rebel T1i side by side comparison further below.

Nikon D5000 with AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 VR Manual Exposure Mode 1/15sec f/13, 6400 ISO		Canon Rebel T1i with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Manual Exposure Mode 1/15sec f/13, 6400 ISO

The above image samples were taken with the Nikon D5000 and the Canon Rebel T1i set at 6400 ISO equivalent. The noise reduction settings on both cameras was kept at the default Normal / Standard setting. Manual exposure mode set at 1/15 sec and f/13 with default image processing parameters.

The crops below are taken from the Nikon D5000 and Canon Digital Rebel T1i sample images shown above when viewed at 100% resolution (full size). The images have not been retouched.

6400 ISO Crop: Nikon D5000 with AF-S DX 18-55mm VR High ISO Noise Reduction On (Normal)		6400 ISO Crop: Canon EOS Rebel T1i with EF-S 18-55mm IS High ISO Noise Reduction On (Standard)

• Two command dials located on the front and back portion of the grip for changing camera settings quickly. Example benefit: adjust manual exposure by rotating the subcommand dial to select the desired aperture value while rotating the main command dial to change the shutter speed. This is a two step process on either the Nikon D5000 or the Canon Rebel T1i / EOS 500D SLR

Nikon D90 Grip Layout	Nikon D5000 Grip Layout

• The D90 provides dedicated buttons located on the top portion of the grip for activating Metering, Exposure Compensation, Drive Modes and Auto Focus. The D5000 offers an 'Info' and a 'Exposure Compensation' button. The Rebel T1i features a dedicated 'ISO' control button on the top grip

• Built-in 'Commander Mode' for wireless external flash control. The built-in flash can be used to easily activate and wirelessly control one external speedlight or up to two groups of dedicated Nikon Speedlights. Wireless external flash control with the Nikon D5000 or the Canon Rebel T1i requires investing in an optional accessory to act as a "Master" control unit

• On-demand grid lines (useful for architectural composition) can be superimposed in the viewfinder or in Live View display on the LCD monitor. Same with the Nikon D5000. On-demand grid lines can be superimposed on the LCD monitor in the Canon Rebel T1i's Live View display mode

• LiveView available in all exposure control modes, including easy Green Auto and 'Scene' modes (same for D5000). LiveView operation on the Canon Rebel T1i is not available in automatic exposure control modes (Can be used in Program, Shutter & Aperture Priority and Manual exposure modes)

• 11-point AF system with 3D Focus Tracking and one cross type sensor. Wide or Normal setting can be selected for center focus point. The D5000 incorporates a similar 11-point AF system with 3D Focus tracking, less the ability to choose a Wide / Normal setting for the center focus point. The Canon Rebel T1i offers a 9 area AF system with one cross type sensor

• DX format 1.5x lens multiplier factor. Example: using the AF-S DX 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED at wide provides 15mm field of view (FOV) coverage in 35mm terms with a 109° angle of view. Same for the D5000. The Rebel T1i offers a 1.6x lens factor. Example: Using the EF-S 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5 USM provides a 16mm FOV in 35mm terms with a 107° angle of view

• Broad lens compatibility range: AF and AF-S NIKKOR and D-type manual focus NIKKOR. Can also use older manual AI NIKKOR F mount lenses with some restrictions. The D5000 works with AF-S lenses (Non AF-S lenses can be used with manual focus assistance provided by the built-in electronic rangefinder). The Canon Rebel T1i is compatible with EF and EF-S lenses. Canon manual FD lenses are not supported

• AF Assist and Red Eye reduction beam provided by dedicated lamp. On the Canon Rebel T1i the flash has to be raised for AF assist, and the flash then emits a series of strobe flashes. Also strobes as part of Red Eye reduction system.

• 12.3 MP DX CMOS sensor with larger pixels and lower pixel density. The pixel size on the Nikon D5000 and D90 is 5.5µm and the pixel size on the Canon Rebel T1i is 4.7µm. Imaging sensors offering larger pixels which are located wider apart are recognized as offering optimized light gathering ability and generating less digital noise at higher ISO settings

• 2.7-inch 230,000 dot Vari-angle LCD monitor that is allows you to shoot easily from creative angles (high, low, self-portrait) in LiveView display mode. The Nikon D90 and the Rebel T1i 3.0-inch VGA high resolution 920,000 dot LCD monitor

• Scene Recognition System (SRS): Information gathered from the 420-pixel RGB sensor provides recognition of the scene prior to capture. The SRS results are used as an aid in determining: Autofocus, Auto Exposure & i-TTL Flash Control, and Auto White Balance. The same applies for the Nikon D90

• 19 Scene modes offer Point and Shoot simplicity: select the desired scene mode and the D5000 SLR automatically adjusts camera settings to match the 'Scene'

Nikon D5000 with AF-S DX 18-55mm VR f/3.5-5.6G VR Nikon 420-pixel RGB 3D Colour Matrix Metering 'Close Up' Automatic Scene Mode (Larger Size)	Canon Rebel T1i with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Canon 35-Zone TTL Evaluative Metering 'Close Up' Automatic Scene Mode (Larger Size)

• 3D Color Matrix Metering II: 420-pixel RGB sensor evaluates the scene teamed with SRS highlight analysis. The results are referenced against an onboard database of over 30,000 photographic scenes to determine exposure. Same for D90. The Rebel T1i's 35-segment sensor evaluative metering system compares the input from all 35 zones to determine exposure

• Four Live View autofocus shooting modes including Subject Tracking autofocus (AF). LiveView is possible in all exposure modes, including Green Auto and 'Scene' modes (D90 same). The Canon Rebel T1i does not offer Subject Tracking AF or the ability to use LiveView in Auto exposure modes

• AF Assist and Red Eye reduction beam provided by dedicated lamp. The same applies with the D90. On the Canon Rebel T1i the flash has to be raised for AF assist or Red Eye reduction and the flash then emits a series of strobe bursts

• Auto Distortion Control Mode: automatically corrects for possible lens edge distortion (set in the shooting Menu before picture is taken). The D5000 also offers a Distortion Control option in the Retouch Menu like on the D90 (adjusted after image is taken). The Canon Rebel T1i does not offer this feature

• Broader metering and exposure compensation value adjustment range compared to the Canon Rebel T1i. The same applies for the Nikon D90 digital SLR

• Interval Timer: set the D5000 to automatically take pictures at predetermined intervals. Up to 999 images. Combine the images using the Stop Motion Movie feature built in to the D5000. The Nikon D90 and the Canon Rebel T1i require an optional programmable cable release accessory to provide Interval Timer operation

• Active D-Lighting and Active D-Lighting bracketing feature provides for dynamic range expansion (set before taking picture): the Nikon D5000 and the D90 control for highlight and shadow detail and adjust exposure according to the scene. The Rebel T1i's 'Highlight Tone Priority' processes for highlights and 'Auto Lighting Optimizer' adjusts for shadows and highlights using tone curves

Larger Size Nikon D5000 with AF-S DX 18-55mm VR f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens Av Exposure Mode f/8, ISO 200, 'Auto Active D-Lighting' On	Larger Size Canon Rebel T1i with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens Av Exposure Mode f/8, ISO 200, 'Auto Lighting Optimizer On'

• The Nikon AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR entry level kit lens features an AF-S motor for quiet fast focusing. All three cameras offer a Peripheral Illumination Correction function to adjust for possible lens vignetting

• Automatic lateral chromatic aberration and distortion control lens correction functions incorporated in the Nikon D5000 and the D90 enhance NIKKOR lens performance

Nikon D5000 with AF-S DX 18-55mm VR f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens Built-in 'Automatic Lateral Chromatic Aberration Correction' Feature	Canon Rebel T1i with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens Chromatic Aberration can be seen along roof edge (purplish line)

• 3.0-inch VGA high resolution 920,000 dot LCD monitor versus the Nikon D5000 with a 2.7-inch 230,000 dot Vari-angle LCD monitor. The Nikon D90 and the Rebel T1i share similar LCD monitor specifications

• Live View Quick Focus Mode: the Rebel T1i flips the mirror down briefly (blanking out the LCD view) and the camera focuses using the autofocus sensor, then returns to Live View mode

• Faster 720p HD movie recording at 30 fps up to 12 min recording time. The D5000 and the D90 offer 24 fps 720p HD movie recording up to 5 min clips. The Rebel T1i uses the Quicktime MOV file format for HD movie recording. The Nikon D5000 and the Nikon D90 use the AVI format commonly compatible with Microsoft Windows Media Player

• Higher resolution HD 1080p movie recording although with a reduced capture rate of 20 fps. The Nikon D5000 and the D90 both offer HD 720p movie recording as a maximum resolution with a capture rate of 24 fps. The Rebel T1i offers 720p HD movie recording at a faster 30 fps

• The Rebel T1i offers the option of using Contrast Detect Auto Focus during HD movie recording. Note: the sound made by the lens while focusing gets picked up by the microphone and is quite noticeable with the EF-S 18-55mm IS non ultrasonic motor kit lens). On the D5000 and the D90 you can use autofocus before you start shooting your movie, and then adjust focus manually while you're recording. The same applies for the Canon Rebel T1i

• The viewfinder magnification on the Canon Rebel T1i is 87% and on the D5000 it is 78%. Both cameras feature a Pentamirror viewfinder design. The Nikon D90 incorporates a Pentaprism glass viewfinder with 94% viewfinder magnification

• The Canon Rebel T1i offers a Hi ISO boost setting equivalent to 12800 ISO. The Nikon D5000 and the D90 provide a maximum ISO boost setting of 6400 ISO

• The Canon Rebel T1i is fully compatible with Canon EF and EF-S lenses. The D5000 is fully compatible with Nikon AF-S lenses. Non AF-S Nikkor lenses can be used on the D5000 with manual focus assistance provided by a built-in electronic rangefinder. The D90 offers a broad lens compatibility range: AF and AF-S NIKKOR and D-type manual focus NIKKOR. Can also use older manual AI NIKKOR F mount lenses although with some restrictions

• Creative Auto Mode (CA) and Auto depth of field selections on main control dial and dedicated Depth-of-Field (DOF) preview button. The D5000 does not offer a Depth-of-Field preview button, although the Nikon D90 does

• Optional Canon vertical release BG-E5 battery grip accessory that can take two rechargeable Canon LP-E5 batteries or six AA batteries. There is no dedicated battery grip available for the D5000. The Nikon D90 is compatible with the optional Nikon accessory MB-D80 vertical release battery grip offering similar functionality

Compare Canadian street prices on the Canon Rebel T1i, Nikon D5000 and the D90 here

Nikon D90 Compared to Nikon D5000 Compared to Canon Rebel T1i

DxOMark Sensor Test Ratings

The Nikon D90 sensor scores significantly higher in terms of base RAW output quality vs. the Canon EOS 50D, providing enhanced Color Depth, Dynamic Range and Low Light ISO performance

The Nikon D5000 shares a very similar sensor with the Nikon D90

The Canon Rebel T1i shares a very similar sensor with the Canon EOS 50D

Image Processor

EXPEED

EXPEED

DIGIC 4

Shutter Cycles

100,000 exposures

100,000 exposures

Not published (50,000 assumed based on other Rebel models)

Pixel Size

5.5µm

5.5µm

4.7µm

Pixel Density

3.3 MP/cm²

3.3 MP/cm²

4.5 MP/cm²

Primary Kit Lens

Nikon AF-S DX

Nikon AF-S DX

Canon EF-S

18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom

No Ultrasonic motor (USM)

Focal Range Multiplier Factor

1.5x

1.5x

1.6x

Image Size and Quality Settings

4,288 x 2,848 [L]
3,216 x 2,136 [M]
2,144 x 1,424 [S]

Quality settings: Fine, Normal, Basic

4,288 x 2,848 [L]
3,216 x 2,136 [M]
2,144 x 1,424 [S]

Quality settings: Fine, Normal, Basic

4752 x 3168 [L]
3456 x 2304 [M]
2352 x 1568 [S]

Quality settings: Fine and Normal

RAW / JPEG Recording

NEF (RAW) + JPEG Fine
NEF (RAW) + JPEG Normal
NEF (RAW) + JPEG Basic
NEF (RAW)
JPEG Fine
JPEG Normal
JPEG Basic

NEF (RAW) + JPEG Fine
NEF (RAW) + JPEG Normal
NEF (RAW) + JPEG Basic
NEF (RAW)
JPEG Fine
JPEG Normal
JPEG Basic

RAW
RAW + JPEG Fine
JPEG Fine
JPEG Normal

Frame Rate

4.5 fps up to 100 jpeg Fine L, 11 frames in RAW / JPEG

4.0 fps up to 63 jpeg Fine L, 7 frames in RAW / JPEG

3.4 fps up to 170 jpegs, 9 frames in RAW / JPEG

Start Up

0.15 sec

--

0.10 sec

Mirror Black Out

120ms

--

130ms

Shutter Lag

65ms

--

70ms

LCD monitor

3.0-in., 920,000-dot (VGA), 170-degree wide viewing angle, 100% frame coverage, low-temperature polysilicon TFT LCD with brightness adjustment, anti-reflective

The Nikon D90's rear LCD monitor switches from a light to dark background in low light situations

Select Dark or Light background. Can be set to Auto LCD adjusts depending on lighting conditions.

2.7-inch, Vari-Angle LCD monitor can be used in its normal flat-to-back position or rotated and / or tilted, 230,000-dot, 170-degree wide viewing angle and brightness adjustment, anti-reflective

Monitor can be stored with the LCD panel facing inward protected from damage.

Classic or Graphic background with 5 different colour options

3.0-in., 920,000-dot (VGA), 170-degree wide viewing angle, 100% frame coverage, low-temperature polysilicon TFT LCD with brightness adjustment, anti-reflective

Four LCD screen background color options

Live View AF Modes 

Contrast Detection with 3 AF-area modes:

1) Face Priority
2) Wide Area AF
3) Normal Area AF

One-touch Live View activation by button

Contrast Detection with 4 AF-area modes:

1) Face Priority
2) Wide Area AF
3) Normal Area AF
4) Subject Tracking

One-touch Live View activation by button

1) Quick Mode using phase detection. Live View is interrupted and the mirror drops when focusing
2) Live Mode using contrast detection. Live View is not affected although focus is slower 
3) Live Face Detection Mode: AF Face priority

One-touch Live View activation by button

Top LCD Information Panel

Yes. Can be illuminated for low light viewing

No

No

Dials and Buttons

• Two command dials for changing camera settings. Make adjustments with your index finger controlling the front sub command dial and your thumb controlling the main command dial while still looking through the camera

• Dedicated button's for adjusting metering, exposure compensation and auto focus located on top of camera

• Programmable Function (Fn) button: provides quick access to activate or change settings for the assigned feature

You can assign one of the following features to the Fn button (use Custom Menu to select):

(1) Framing grid - Select On, Off

(2) AF Area mode - Select AF Area

(3) Center focus point - Choose Wide or Normal

(4) Activate FV lock

(5) Flash off when Fn button is pressed

(6) Matrix metering

(7) Center weighted metering

(8) Spot metering

(9) Access top item in my Menu

(10) + RAW / NEF, adds RAW/NEF copy to JPEG

• One front command dial for changing settings

• Dedicated button's for exposure compensation and Information display located on top of camera

• Programmable Function (Fn) button (Default Self Timer): provides quick access to activate or change settings for the assigned feature

You can assign one of the following features to the Fn button (use Custom Menu to select):

(1) Self Timer Modes

(2) Release mode – Press the Fn button and rotate the command dial to change release mode

(3) Image Quality / Size

(4) ISO sensitivity

(5 White Balance

(6) Active D-Lighting

(7) + RAW / NEF

8) Auto bracketing:
Select AE or WB bracketing increments by pressing the Self Timer / Fn button and rotating the command dial

• One front command dial for changing settings

 • Dedicated button for ISO control on top of the camera

• Customize “Set” button: provides quick access to activate a selected feature:

(0) Quick Control Screen

(1) Image quality

(2) Flash exposure comp.

(3) LCD monitor On/Off

(4) Menu display

(5) Disabled

HD movie Recording

Motion JPG (AVI file)
• 720p HD video capture at 24 fps (1280 x 720) Up to 5 min clips
• 640 x 424 (24 fps) Up to 20 min
• 320 x 216 (24 fps)
• No AF during movie recording (manual focus)
• Adjustment of Picture Control is available

Motion JPG (AVI file)
• 720p HD video capture at 24 fps (1280 x 720) Up to 5 min clips
• 640 x 424 (24 fps) Up to 20 min
• 320 x 216 (24 fps)
• No AF during movie recording (manual focus)
• Adjustment of Picture Control is available

Quicktime MOV format
• 720p HD video capture at 30 fps (1280 x 720) Up to 12 min clips
• HD 1080p video capture at 20 fps up to 18 min clips
• 4:3 standard TV quality (SD) video capture at 640 x 480 pixels and 30 fps up to 24 min
• The video capture uses the Picture Style that has been set for Live View still image shooting.

Viewfinder System

• Pentaprism glass viewfinder (clearer and brighter than pentamirror)
• Approx. 0.94x viewfinder magnification
• 19.5 mm eyepoint
• Dioptric adjustment: -2.0 to +1.0 diopter

• Pentamirror viewfinder
• Approx. 0.78x viewfinder magnification
• 17.5 mm eyepoint
• Dioptric adjustment: -2.0 to +1.0 diopter

• Pentamirror viewfinder
• Approx. 0.87x viewfinder magnification
• 19 mm eyepoint
• Dioptric adjustment: -3.0 to +1.0 diopter
• Infrared proximity sensor turns off the rear LCD screen when you hold the camera up to your eye 

Focus Screen

Fixed precision matte screen with superimposed focus brackets and On-Demand grid lines.

The color used to highlight the active focus area (focus brackets) in the viewfinder display changes automatically in response to lighting conditions. 

Fixed precision Type B BriteView Clear Matte Mark V screen with focus frame (framing grid can be displayed)

Grid display available in LiveView and superimposed on LCD monitor

Fixed precision matte screen

Grid display available in LiveView and superimposed on LCD monitor

ISO Sensitivity Settings

• ISO range 100-6400 ISO

• Auto ISO: ISO 200 to 3200 in steps of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV

• Manual ISO: 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 and 1 EV (ISO 100 equivalent) under ISO 200 and approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 and 1 EV (ISO 6400 equivalent) over ISO 3200

• ISO range 100-6400 ISO

• Auto ISO: ISO 200 to 3200 in steps of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV

• Manual ISO: 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 and 1 EV (ISO 100 equivalent) under ISO 200 and approx. 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 and 1 EV (ISO 6400 equivalent) over ISO 3200

• ISO range 100-12800 ISO

• Auto ISO: 100-1600 ISO in steps of 1/3 EV

• Manual ISO: 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 ISO and H1: 6400 ISO, H2: 12800 ISO  

Multiple Exposure Mode

Can be set for 2 or 3 frames

Image Overlay in Retouch Menu: combine two captured images (RAW / NEF)

No

Image Overlay in Retouch Menu: combine two captured images (RAW / NEF)

No

Noise Reduction (NR) System

Long exposure noise reduction: Images taken at slow shutter speeds are processed to reduce noise. Settings: High, Normal, Low and Off

High ISO noise reduction: Images taken at ISO sensitivities of ISO 800 and higher are processed to reduce noise. Four selectable settings include: "High", "Normal" (default), "Low", "Off"

Long exposure noise reduction: Images taken at slow shutter speeds are processed to reduce noise. Settings: High, Normal, Low and Off

High ISO noise reduction: Images taken at ISO sensitivities of ISO 800 and higher are processed to reduce noise. Four selectable settings include: "High", "Normal" (default), "Low", "Off"

Long exposure noise reduction: Images taken at slow shutter speeds are processed to reduce noise. Settings: On, Auto, and Off

High ISO noise reduction: Images taken at ISO sensitivities of ISO 800 and higher are processed to reduce noise. Four selectable settings include: "Standard", "Low", "Strong", "Disable"

Lens Compatibility

Nikon F Lens Mount

1) AF NIKKOR (including AF-S, DX, VR and D-/G-type): All functions possible

2) D-type Manual-Focus NIKKOR: All functions except some exposure modes available

3) AF NIKKOR other than D-/G-type: All functions except 3D-Color Matrix Metering II and3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash possible

4) AI-P NIKKOR: All functions except 3D-Color Matrix Metering II and 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash

5) Non-CPU AI NIKKOR (Older manual NIKKOR lenses): Usable in [A] or [M] mode with Matrix Metering, Center-Weighted and Spot Metering available Indication of aperture No., after user inputs the aperture f/No. and focal length f=mm by multi-selector operation Electronic rangefinder usable with maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster

Nikon F Lens Mount

1) AF-S or AF-I: All functions supported

Canon EF Lens Mount

1) Canon EF lenses (including EF-S lenses)

2) Older manual focus Canon FD lenses are not compatible with the Canon EOS digital SLR system

AF System

11 focus points (including one cross-type sensor)

Center focus point can be set for Normal or Wide 

11 focus points (including one cross-type sensor) 

9 focus points (including one cross-type sensor)

AF Modes

1) Single-area AF
2) Dynamic-area AF
3) Auto-area AF
4) 3D Focus Tracking (11-area) 

1) Single-area AF
2) Dynamic-area AF
3) Auto-area AF
4) 3D Focus Tracking (11-area) 

1) AI Focus
2) One Shot
3) AI Servo

Face Detection AF

Face Detection AF in Live View

Face Detection AF in Live View

Face Detection AF in Live View

AF Detection Range

-1 to +19 EV (ISO 100, at 20°C/68°F)

-1 to +19 EV (ISO 100, at 20°C/68°F)

EV -0.5 - 18 (at 23°C/73°F, ISO 100)

Quiet Release Mode

No

Yes, dampens shutter sound when shooting to minimize noise interference

No

Shooting Exposure Modes on Control Dial

Program
Shutter-Priority
Aperture-Priority
Manual
Auto

Program
Shutter-Priority
Aperture-Priority
Manual
Auto

Program
Shutter-Priority
Aperture-Priority
Manual
Auto
Flash off
Movie
Auto depth-of-field
CA mode (Creative Auto)

Scene modes

On Control Dial:

Portrait
Landscape
Close-up
Sports
Night portrait

On Control Dial:

Portrait
Landscape
Child
Sports
Close Up
Night Portrait

Selected by using Scene Menu:

Night landscape
Party/indoor
Beach/snow
Sunset
Dusk/dawn
Pet portrait
Candlelight
Blossom
Autumn colors
Food
Silhouette
High key
Low key

On Control Dial:

Portrait
Landscape
Close-up
Sports
Night portrait

Shutter Speed

30 to 1/4000 sec (1/3 or 1/2 EV steps) 

30 to 1/4000 sec (1/3 or 1/2 EV steps) 

30 to 1/4000 sec (1/3 or 1/2 EV steps) 

Metering System

TTL exposure metering using 420-pixel RGB sensor

1) Matrix: 3D color matrix metering II (type G and D lenses); color matrix metering II (other CPU lenses)

2) Center-weighted: Weight of 75% given to 6, 8, or 10 mm circle in center of frame

3) Spot: Meters 3.5 mm circle (about 2% of frame) centered on selected focus point 

TTL exposure metering using 420-pixel RGB sensor

1) Matrix: 3D color matrix metering II (type G and D lenses); color matrix metering II (other CPU lenses)

2) Center-weighted: Weight of 75% given to 8mm circle in center of frame

3) Spot: Meters 3.5 mm circle (about 2% of frame) centered on selected focus point 

35-zone TTL full-aperture metering

1) Evaluative metering (linkable to any AF point)

2) Partial metering (approx. 9% of viewfinder at center)

3) Spot metering (approx. 3.8% of viewfinder at center)

4) Center-weighted average metering

Metering Range

EV 0 - 20

EV 0 - 20

EV 1 - 20

Exposure Compensation

-5 to +5 EV in 1/2 or 1/3 EV steps

-5 to +5 EV in 1/2 or 1/3 EV steps

-2 to +2 EV in 1/2 EV or 1/3 EV steps

Auto Exposure Bracketing

2 or 3 exposures in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 1 or 2 EV

3 exposures in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 1 or 2 EV

3 exposures in steps of 1/2 or 1/3 EV

White Balance Settings

Settings AWB, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Direct Sunlight, Flash, Cloudy, Shade

Choose color temp. (Kelvin settings from 2500 to 10000

White balance compensation:
1. Blue/Amber fine adjustment by grid
2. Magenta/ Green fine adjustment by grid

Preset manual (Custom WB): Create, name and store up to 4 custom WB settings based on readings from a white card

Use Photo: Match to a previously captured image selected by the user

Settings AWB, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Direct Sunlight, Flash, Cloudy, Shade

White balance compensation:
1. Blue/Amber fine adjustment by grid
2. Magenta/ Green fine adjustment by grid

Preset manual (Custom WB): measure and store a white balance setting based on readings from a white card

Use Photo: Match to a previously captured image selected by the user

Settings AWB, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, White Fluorescent light, Flash, Custom.

White balance compensation:
1. Blue/Amber adjust from -9 to +9
2. Magenta/ Green adjust from -9 to +9

Custom WB: The WB setting is matched to a previously captured image as selected by the user. One setting can be registered

White Balance Bracketing

2 or 3 frames in steps of 1, 2 or 3

Dedicated bracketing button on side of camera to activate

Captures one shot and writes three files with WB variance

3 frames in steps of 1, 2 or 3

Can be assigned to be activated by pressing the Fn button

Captures one shot and writes three files with WB variance

3 frames in steps of 1, 2 or 3

Captures one shot and writes three files with WB variance

Peripheral Illumination Correction

Yes, Brightens the corners of images to correct for lens vignetting

Yes, Brightens the corners of images to correct for lens vignetting

Yes, Brightens the corners of images to correct for lens vignetting

Scene Recognition System (SRS)

Scene Recognition System (SRS) like D300, D700, D3 and D3x:

Information from the 420-pixel RGB sensor is used to recognize the scene prior to capture.

The results from SRS are used by the Nikon D90 when determining:

Autofocus:

• Subject identification
• Composition-change
  detection
• Face priority AF

Auto Exposure & i-TTL Flash Control:

• Highlight analysis
• Face detection

Auto White Balance:

• Light source identification
• Face detection

Playback:
• Zoom to face

Scene Recognition System (SRS) like D300, D700, D3 and D3x:

Information from the 420-pixel RGB sensor is used to recognize the scene prior to capture.

The results from SRS are used by the Nikon D5000 when determining:

Autofocus:

• Subject identification
• Composition-change
  detection
• Face priority AF

Auto Exposure & i-TTL Flash Control:

• Highlight analysis
• Face detection

Auto White Balance:

• Light source identification
• Face detection

Playback:
• Zoom to face

N/A

Dynamic Range Processing

• Active D-Lighting (from 100 ISO and up) Settings: Off, Low, Normal, High, Extra High and Auto
 
• Active D-Lighting Bracketing: 2 frames

• D-Lighting can be applied in the D90 Retouch Menu (applied after) or using optional Nikon Capture NX2 software

• Active D-Lighting (from 100 ISO and up) Settings: Off, Low, Normal, High, Extra High and Auto
 
• Active D-Lighting Bracketing: 2 frames

• D-Lighting can be applied in the D5000 Retouch Menu (applied after) or using optional Nikon Capture NX2 software

• Highlight Tone Priority (from 200 ISO to 3200 ISO) Settings: Disable, enable

• Auto Lighting Optimizer: Settings Low, Standard, Strong, Disable

Image Processing

Picture Control Settings
• Six preset Picture Control settings
• Nine Custom Picture Control Settings can be registered

• Standard: Standard: Vivid, sharp images; optimal for direct printing without post-processing

• Neutral: Low sharpening, contrast and saturation: the ideal starting point for image-editing in the computer

• Vivid: For distinct, colorful, fresh-looking images with just the right emphasis on your subject’s contrast and sharpening.

• Monochrome: Black & White images; adjustable contrast, sharpening, as well as color toning and effects of traditional color filters.

• Portrait: Warmer
skin tones, with slight increases in contrast and sharpening

• Landscape: bright, saturated and sharpened images, with emphasis on blue and green color saturation.

Quick Adjust settings available for Standard, Vivid, Portrait and Landscape processing parameters. Individual fine tune adjustments for Sharpening, Contrast, Brightness, Saturation and Hue

Picture Control Settings
• Six preset Picture Control settings
• Nine Custom Picture Control Settings can be registered

• Standard: Standard: Vivid, sharp images; optimal for direct printing without post-processing

• Neutral: Low sharpening, contrast and saturation: the ideal starting point for image-editing in the computer

• Vivid: For distinct, colorful, fresh-looking images with just the right emphasis on your subject’s contrast and sharpening.

• Monochrome: Black & White images; adjustable contrast, sharpening, as well as color toning and effects of traditional color filters.

• Portrait: Warmer
skin tones, with slight increases in contrast and sharpening

• Landscape: bright, saturated and sharpened images, with emphasis on blue and green color saturation.

Quick Adjust settings available for Standard, Vivid, Portrait and Landscape processing parameters. Individual fine tune adjustments for Sharpening, Contrast, Brightness, Saturation and Hue

Picture Style Settings
• Six preset Picture Style settings
• Three Custom Picture Style Settings can be registered

• Standard: Vivid, sharp images; optimal for direct printing without post-processing

• Portrait: Warmer
skin tones, with slight increases in contrast and sharpening

• Landscape: bright, saturated and sharpened images, with emphasis on blue and green color saturation.

• Neutral: Low sharpening, contrast and saturation: the ideal starting point for image-editing in the computer

• Faithful: Accurate
reproduction of the subject's colors based on colorimetric data

• Monochrome: Black & White images; adjustable contrast, sharpening, as well as color toning and effects of traditional color filters.

Retouch Menu

In-Camera Retouch Menu Options include:

• D-Lighting
• Redeye correction
• Trim
• Monochrome
• Filter effects
• Colour balance
• Small picture
• Image overlay
• NEF (RAW) processing
• Quick retouch
• Straighten
• Distortion control
• Fisheye filter

In-Camera Retouch Menu Options include:

• D-Lighting
• Redeye correction
• Trim “16:9” and "1:1” crop modes have been added to the “3:2”, “4:3”, and “5:4” options available with the D90
• Monochrome
• Filter effects
• Colour balance
• Small picture
• Image overlay
• NEF (RAW) processing
• Quick retouch
• Straighten
• Distortion control
• Fisheye filter
• Colour Outline
• Perspective Control
• Stop-motion movie

N/A

Flash System

i-TTL + Wireless Creative Lighting System Support

i-TTL + Wireless Creative Lighting System Support

E-TTL II with EX series Speedlites

Built-in Pop Up Flash

Guide Number 13 @ 100 ISO with 18mm coverage

Guide Number 13 @ 100 ISO with 18mm coverage

Guide Number 13 @ 100 ISO with 17mm coverage

Wireless Flash Support

• Advanced Wireless Lighting supported with built-in flash acting as "commander" with in camera wireless control of up to two groups of external speedlight flashes

• Also offers wireless flash control with an attached Nikon SB-900, SB-800, or SU-800 acting as commander, and Nikon SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 speedlights as remotes

• Wireless flash control with an attached Nikon SB-900, SB-800, or SU-800 as commander, and Nikon SB-900, SB-800, SB-600, or SB-R200 speedlights as remotes

• Wireless flash support requires accessory Canon ST-E2 transmitter

Red Eye Reduction System

Beam from lamp: Approx. range 0.5-3 m/1 ft. 8 in.-9 ft. 10 in.) 

Beam from lamp: Approx. range 0.5-3 m/1 ft. 8 in.-9 ft. 10 in.) 

Small series of flashes fired by built-in flash. Flash must be raised for AF assist operation

Flash Modes

Front curtain, Rear curtain, Red-Eye, Slow, Redeye Slow

Front curtain, Rear curtain, Redeye, Slow, Redeye Slow

Auto, On, Red-eye reduction, Off

Flash sync

1/200th sec
PC sync with optional AS-15 adapter

1/200th sec
PC sync with optional AS-15 adapter

1/200 sec 

Flash Exposure Compensation

-3EV to +1 EV in increments of 1/3 or 1/2 EV

-3EV to +1 EV in increments of 1/3 or 1/2 EV

- 2EV to +2EV in increments of 1/3 or 1/2 EV

Flash Control

• Flash Value (FV) lock

• Auto FP High-Speed Sync with compatible external Nikon speedlights

• Repeating Flash and Modeling Flash modes

• Flash Value (FV) lock

• Flash Exposure (FE) lock

• High-Speed Sync with compatible external Canon speedlite flashes

Dust Reduction System

• The Optical Low Pass Filter (OLPF) has an antistatic design to prevent static electricity from attracting dust and foreign matter to its surface

• Self Cleaning Sensor Unit designed to eliminate larger types of dust

• Image dust-off data acquisition: allows you to map out the dust on the sensor and have the software remove it automatically

• The area surrounding the rear surface of the image sensor is sealed to help prevent dust and foreign matter from entering from the back

• The Nikon D90 is designed to maintain a space between the imaging surface of the image sensor and the surface of the OLPF. As dust and foreign matter on the image sensor do not form a sharp image (degree of sharpness also varies with aperture value), it is less likely for such dust and/or foreign matter to have an effect on photographs

• The D90 is designed so that the moving parts such as the shutter and quick-return mirror produce very little of the dust and particles associated with mechanical wear of new parts inside the camera.

• Airflow Control Ducts like Nikon D60 to minimize dust entering the body

• The Optical Low Pass Filter (OLPF) has an antistatic design to prevent static electricity from attracting dust and foreign matter to its surface

• Self Cleaning Sensor Unit designed to eliminate larger types of dust

• Image dust-off data acquisition: allows you to map out the dust on the sensor and have the software remove it automatically

• The area surrounding the rear surface of the image sensor is sealed to help prevent dust and foreign matter from entering from the back

• The Nikon D5000 is designed to maintain a space between the imaging surface of the image sensor and the surface of the OLPF. As dust and foreign matter on the image sensor do not form a sharp image (degree of sharpness also varies with aperture value), it is less likely for such dust and/or foreign matter to have an effect on photographs

• The Nikon D5000 is designed so that the moving parts such as the shutter and quick-return mirror produce very little of the dust and particles associated with mechanical wear of new parts inside the camera.

• The Optical Low Pass Filter (OLPF) has an antistatic design to prevent static electricity from attracting dust and foreign matter to its surface

• Self Cleaning Sensor Unit designed to eliminate larger types of dust

• Image dust-off data acquisition: allows you to map out the dust on the sensor and have the software remove it automatically

Custom Function Settings

41 custom functions 

23 custom functions 

13 custom functions 

My Menu

•  Recent Settings Menu

•  My Menu: Register your own frequently used menu items and custom functions (activation can be tied to Function button)

•  Recent Settings Menu

• My Menu: Register your own frequently used menu items and custom functions (activation can be tied to Function button)

• My Menu: Register your own frequently used menu items and custom functions

Distortion Control Function

Distortion Control in Retouch Menu (applied after shot taken)

Auto Distortion Control Mode: automatically corrects the distortion that can occur at image peripheries (set before shot taken). Supported by NIKKOR CPU lenses

Distortion Control in Retouch Menu (applied after shot taken)

No

Lateral Chromatic Aberration Correction

Like the professional Nikon D3 and D300, the D90 compensates for lateral chromatic aberration. "Lateral Chromatic Aberration Correction" function serves to reduce moiré and provides optimized edge sharpness.

Like the professional Nikon D3 and D300, the D5000 compensates for lateral chromatic aberration. "Lateral Chromatic Aberration Correction" function serves to reduce moiré and provides optimized edge sharpness.

N/A

Self Timer

Can be selected from 2, 5, 10, and 20 s duration

Can be selected from 2, 5, 10, and 20 s duration

10 sec. or 2 sec. Delay

Interval Timer Shooting

No

Yes, photographs automatically taken at predetermined selected intervals. Set for up to 999 images

No

Depth of Field Preview

Dedicated button

No

Dedicated button

Optional Vertical Battery Grip Accessory

MB-D80 can take two EN-EL3e or six AA batteries 

No dedicated battery grip accessory

BG-E5 can take two LP-E5 batteries or six AA batteries

Text Input

Up to 36 characters of alphanumeric text input available with LCD monitor and multi-selector; stored in Exif header

Up to 36 characters of alphanumeric text input available with LCD monitor and multi-selector; stored in Exif header

No

Remote Control

Wireless Remote Control ML-L3 or
Remote Cord MC-DC2

Wireless Remote Control ML-L3 or
Remote Cord MC-DC2

Wireless Remote Controller RC-5 or Remote Switch RS-60E3 (cord)

HDMI

HDMI 1.3-compliant
Type C 

HDMI 1.3-compliant
Type C 

HDMI 1.3-compliant
Type C 

Battery Type and Duration (Approx.)

Lithium-Ion EN-EL3e rechargeable battery and charger supplied
850 shots per charge based on CIPA Standard 50% with flash

Lithium-Ion EN-EL9a rechargeable battery and charger supplied
510 shots per charge based on CIPA Standard 50% with flash

Lithium-Ion LP-E5 rechargeable battery and charger supplied
400 shots per charge based on CIPA Standard 50% with flash

Dedicated GPS Accessory

Optional Nikon GP-1 GPs Unit Attaches on hot shoe via cable to camera. Useful for geo-tagging applications

Optional Nikon GP-1 GPs Unit Attaches on hot shoe via cable to camera. Useful for geo-tagging applications

No

Supported Languages in Menu

16 Menu Language selections: Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish

16 Menu Language selections: Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish

25 Menu Language selections: English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Portuguese, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Greek, Russian, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Romanian, Ukraine, Turkish, Arabic, Thai, Simplified/Traditional Chinese, Korean, Japanese)

Supplied Software

QuickTime
Nikon Transfer utility
ViewNX software
ViewNX allows you to rotate, compress for e-mail, create a slide show and convert images from your D90. ViewNX allows you to convert RAW NEF files to JPEG and TIFF formats
DirectX 9
Nikon Capture NX 2 editing software 60 day trial version

QuickTime
Nikon Transfer utility
ViewNX software
ViewNX allows you to rotate, compress for e-mail, create a slide show and convert images from your D90. ViewNX allows you to convert RAW NEF files to JPEG and TIFF formats
DirectX 9
Nikon Capture NX 2 editing software 60 day trial version

EOS Utility 2.6 (Mac/Windows)
Digital Photo Professional 3.6 (Mac/Windows) RAW conversion
ImageBrowser 6.2 (Mac) / ZoomBrowser EX 6.3 (Windows)
Picture Style Editor 1.5 (Mac/Windows)
WFT Utility 3.3 (Mac/Windows)
PhotoStitch 3.2 (Mac)
PhotoStitch 3.1 (Windows)
Movie Edit Task 3.2
(Mac/Windows) 

Accessories Included in the Box

Rubber Eyecup DK-21
Camera Strap AN-DC1
USB Cable UC-E4
AV Cable EG-D2
Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL3e, Battery Charger MH-18a
Nikon Software Suite CD
Instruction Manuals
Eyepiece Cap DK-5
Protective Clear LCD Cover BM-10
Vincent Bockaert's 123 of Digital Imaging ebook (Canada)

Rubber Eyecup DK-24
Camera Strap AN-DC3
USB Cable UC-E6
Audio Video Cable EG-CP14
Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL9a, Battery Charger MH-23
Nikon Software Suite CD-ROM
Instruction Manuals
Eyepiece Cap DK-5
Vincent Bockaert's 123 of Digital Imaging ebook (Canada)

Rubber Eyecup Ef C
Wide Strap EW-100DBIII
USB Interface Cable IFC-200U
Audio Video Cable AVC-DC400
Rechargeable Li-ion Battery LP-E5, Battery Charger LC-E5
EOS Digital Solution Disk
Instruction Manuals
"Great Photography is Easy" Booklet and "Do More with Macro" Booklet

Memory Card Type

SD (Secure Digital) memory cards; camera supports SDHC 

SD (Secure Digital) memory cards; camera supports SDHC 

SD (Secure Digital) memory cards; camera supports SDHC 

Size

132 x 103 x 77 mm (5.2 x 4.1 x 3.0 in)

127 x 104 x 80 mm (5.0 x 4.1 x 3.1 in)

129 x 98 x 62 mm (5.1 x 3.9 x 2.4 in)

Warranty

Two year in Canada warranty

Two year in Canada warranty

One year warranty

Weight

703g

560g

520g