Nikon COOLPIX P500 Point & Shoot Camera
The Nikon Coolpix P500 is a 12MP 1/2.3 inch compact camera — with 1080p video. Used copies start from $75 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon COOLPIX P500 Point & Shoot Camera
Used Nikon Coolpix P500 Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Nikon Coolpix P500
Key Features — Nikon Coolpix P500
36x Optical Zoom Lens: The built-in 36x optical zoom lens covers a wide focal range, making it versatile for everything from landscapes to distant subjects.
12MP 1/2.3-Inch Sensor: The 12MP sensor paired with the Expeed C2 processor delivers up to 4000x3000 pixel images with consistent color rendering.
Full HD 1080p Video: Records 1080p video at up to 30fps, allowing users to capture high-definition footage alongside stills.
Vari-Angle 3.0" LCD: The 921,000-dot articulating display can be tilted and rotated, making it practical for overhead, low-angle, and self-portrait shooting.
8fps Burst Shooting: Continuous shooting at up to 8 frames per second helps capture fast-moving subjects with a higher chance of getting the decisive moment.
99-Point Contrast AF with Tracking: The 99-point contrast-detection autofocus system includes subject tracking to maintain focus on moving targets throughout a sequence.
Camera Specifications — Nikon Coolpix P500
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel, Wildlife, Sports |
| Type | Point and Shoot |
| Sensor | 1/2.3 inch |
| Resolution | 12MP |
| Processor | Expeed C2 |
| ISO Range | 160 – 3200 |
| AF System | Contrast Detection, Face Detection AF |
| AF Points | 99 points |
| Max Photo Resolution | 4000x3000 |
| Burst Rate | 8 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 1080p |
| Max Frame Rate | 30fps |
Description — Nikon Coolpix P500
The Nikon COOLPIX P500 is a point-and-shoot camera equipped with a 12MP sensor in a 1/2.3-inch format, processed by Nikon's Expeed C2 engine. Still images top out at 4000x3000 pixels, and the camera supports multiple color profiles including Standard, Vivid, Monochrome, and Custom for creative flexibility. The native ISO 160–3200 range keeps noise manageable across varying lighting situations.
Burst shooting reaches 8fps, useful for sports or wildlife. Video tops out at 1080p at 30fps in 8-bit depth. The 3.0-inch Vari-Angle LCD with 921,000 dots is the primary composition tool, and its articulating design makes low- and high-angle shots far more accessible.
The autofocus system offers 99 focus points with subject tracking enabled. The built-in pop-up flash covers Auto, Red-eye reduction, Fill flash, and Slow sync modes. The camera weighs 494g and measures 115.5 x 83.7 x 102.5 mm, with no weather sealing.
Storage is via SD, SDHC, or SDXC cards, and the EN-EL5 battery is rated for approximately 220 shots per charge.
Pros — Nikon Coolpix P500
- ✓99-point autofocus system with subject tracking for capturing moving subjects
- ✓Vari-Angle 3.0-inch LCD with 921,000-dot resolution enables flexible shooting angles
- ✓Burst mode at up to 8fps supports action and fast-moving subject photography
Cons — Nikon Coolpix P500
- ✗No viewfinder — all framing depends entirely on the LCD display
- ✗No weather sealing, limiting use in rain or dusty environments
- ✗Digital/Electronic IS only — no optical image stabilization in the system specs
Reviews — Nikon Coolpix P500
Videos — Nikon Coolpix P500
Nikon Coolpix P500 Review — infosyncvideos
Frequently Asked Questions — Nikon Coolpix P500
What memory cards does the Nikon COOLPIX P500 support?+
The P500 is compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. This gives buyers a wide range of current card options to choose from.
Can the Nikon COOLPIX P500 record HD video?+
Yes, the P500 records Full HD 1080p video at up to 30fps, as well as 15fps. Video is captured in 8-bit color using a Standard color profile.
Does the Nikon COOLPIX P500 have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?+
No, the P500 does not include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. It does offer USB connectivity and Mini HDMI output for wired data transfer and display connection.
What autofocus modes does the P500 support?+
The camera uses Contrast Detection and Face Detection AF with 99 focus points. Subject tracking is also supported, which helps maintain focus on moving subjects.
Is the Nikon COOLPIX P500 weather-sealed?+
No, the P500 has no weather sealing. Its body is constructed from plastic/composite material, so it should be kept away from rain, moisture, and dusty environments.
What is the maximum photo resolution of the COOLPIX P500?+
The P500 captures images at a maximum resolution of 4000x3000 pixels using its 12MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor processed by the Expeed C2 image processor.