Canon 650D vs Nikon D5000

In this article, we are contrasting the Canon 650D versus Nikon D5000, both Entry-Level DSLR cameras by competitors Canon and Nikon. There is a huge difference among the image resolutions of the 650D (18MP) and D5000 (12MP) but they come with the same exact sensor dimensions (APS-C).

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The 650D was released 3 years later than the D5000 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact SLR).

Before going in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple summary of how the 650D grades vs the D5000 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon EOS 650D and Nikon D5000. The complete galleries are provided at Canon 650D Gallery and Nikon D5000 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera frequently, you will need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Canon 650D has outside measurements of 133mm x 100mm x 79mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.1") along with a weight of 575 grams (1.27 lbs) while the Nikon D5000 has measurements of 127mm x 104mm x 80mm (5.0" x 4.1" x 3.1") having a weight of 590 grams (1.30 lbs).

See the Canon 650D versus Nikon D5000 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with during that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the 650D versus the D5000.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the 650D and D5000 is 65 and 65 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizing simply by seeing specifications. The visual below might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the 650D and D5000.

To sum up, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different megapixels. You should expect to see the Canon 650D to show more detail as a result of its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images a little more aggressively. The more recent 650D should have a benefit in sensor innovation.