[JJ_SO]

Yes, I'm aware of that. This was also already true with the D300 and the D3 series cameras (at least in terms of coverage). However, I always felt more comfortable using the D300 viewfinder with the wider viewfinder (!) AF coverage than any of the D3-series cameras when I already knew I'd have to crop later (due to lack of focal length, for example).

 

As far as I know, in the D850 will not be only lines to indicate APS-C usage but also a fully blacked-out area. So, I have one use for the additional Fn2 button: "Switch to APS-C. NOW!" 

 

Later cropping doesn't help me saving disk (or card)- space. But you're right, the D500 is less expensive and doesn't need a lot of furniture around the cam to be really fast. It has a touchscreen and tilt-display as well and uses the very same set of buttons and wheels.

 

Or did Nikon change the layout of their 4 button wheel on the left top side again, with each new cam? Anyway the usage concept of both models is the same. I found it very confusing at first to change from U1/U2 to this benches in the menu and I still think, it's not the best in ergonomics. But I got used to it.