It features a 2.7-inch 230,000-dot resolution tilt-and-swivel LCD monitor (D90 is 3.0-inch (76 mm), 920,000 pixel, without swivel or tilt), live view, ISO 200–3200 (100–6400 with Boost), 3D tracking Multi-CAM1000 11-point AF system, active D-Lighting system and automatic correction of lateral chromatic aberration.

[7][8] Can mount unmodified A-lenses (also called Non-AI, Pre-AI or F-type) with support of the electronic rangefinder and without metering.

[9] Dxomark published a detailed analysis where they rated the sensor of the D5000 in terms of image noise, dynamic range and color depth about 2/3 stops better than the Canon 500D / T1i,[10] which was visible in real-life comparisons made by Camera Labs.

[13][14][15][16] In late July 2009, there was a recall due to a problem that was discovered with the camera's power systems.

[17] The service includes fast shipping both ways to the repair shop with most people receiving their fixed camera within 2 weeks.