Shimano Deore brake levers, M596 vs M505

Shimano currently seem to have two types of Deore hydraulic brake levers, the M596 and the M505. Oddly the 505 seems slightly more expensive than the 596. Is there any particular reason to go for either and will either style offer be anything better over my old style M585 levers?

M596

M505

I bought a pair of M596 levers and connected them up to an old pair of LX calipers. the feel is very good with excellent power. It’s still quite early, but I think I prefer them to my SLX brakes.

The latest shimano discs have seen a price drop, so I guess that’s why the newer levers are cheaper. Based on my experiences, I’d say go with the M596, although the M505s will be easier to bleed in the traditional way.

I’ve got one of the 505 ones on a brake. It’s OK, but after a year it’s developed an incurable squeak and the adjuster’s snapped off. Based on nothing in particular, I’d go for the newer ones.