Is Nikon Finally Building a True D500 Replacement?

Last Updated on 07/10/2026 by Chris Gampat

Nikon has created some wonderful APS-C cameras over the years. The company’s D7000 series, the D3000 series, and the D500 are some innovations that have benefited beginners and serious enthusiasts. It now seems that Nikon is keen on introducing a new camera that can help those who want performance at a decent price.

The Announcement

First reported by Nikon Rumors, Nikon is keen on introducing a fast, high-end, professional APS-C (DX). It is said to have the following:

• 45MP stacked sensor
• A fast camera (like a small Z9 or a ZR), and can be similar to the Nikon D500
• Expected to release in the next few months, likely August-September
• The model is not conclusive, but it could be Z90, Z80, Z30II, or the Z500.

Why the D500 Should be Next

At the moment, it makes more sense if the camera is the next D500. The camera was designed to meet the needs of wildlife and sports photographers. The D500 features a 20.9MP sensor, has a sturdy build quality, a tilting LCD, and weighs just 860g. The Nikon D500 continues to be one of the most successful offerings, and photographers who like speed and fantastic build. In our review of the camera, we found the camera’s autofocus is quick, and it worked really well in low light as well. It is also accurate and very consistent. Moreover, the images are fantastic, the JPEGs are colors, and the RAW files offer a lot. As we added:

The Nikon D500 has very low ISO noise and pretty much none at all when you look at an image as a whole when shooting at ISO 6400. It’s about on par with the X Pro 2.

What People Are Saying

Since the announcement, people have been debating about what one can expect. Some say that 45MP could cause diffraction issues when shooting at f4 and loss by f5.6. It could also result in issue of high-ISO performance. Some commentors would prefer a 30-33MP, which can help with the current DX cameras while staying better at low-light performance. Some have argued that Fujifilm’s XH series has a 40MP sensor without any challenge, so Nikon should be able to do it.

However, a good autofocus is a must. A 45MP sensor can be a challenge given with fast read-out speed. Perhaps, with EXPEED 8, one can get better processing power. In-body image stabilization is another must have, and price is another reason what makes people choose the model. If the camera is priced as much as the Z8, the chances of people buying it will be lower.

Some suggest the camera could be a response to the Canon R7 II, and also the Fujifilm cameras. However, until the camera is revealed, we must take this with a grain of salt. Until then, we have to wait and see how it turns out.