Nikon d3500 vs Nikon d5600 comparison

Last Updated on December 7, 2023 by Sharon Advik

Nikon d3500 vs Nikon d5600 comparison:

Overview:

Two digital cameras, the Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D5600, were formally unveiled in August 2018 and November 2016, respectively.

Both cameras have an APS-C sensor and are DSLRs for Digital Single Lens Reflex.

Both cameras share a 24-megapixel resolution.

Investigating Nikon’s entry-level ‘D’ series digital SLR products is a terrific approach to committing to a camera system if you’re okay with traditional DSLR rather than the newest kid on the block, mirrorless.

Both the Nikon D3500 (opens in new tab) we’re highlighting here and its numerically superior – but surprisingly similar specified – –

Nikon D5600(opens in new tab) features a standard for their class APS-C sensor and targets prospective photographers looking for more creativity and freedom than a smartphone can offer.

With a Nikon DSLR, you may choose from a vast selection of Nikon F-mount, DX format (APS-C), and accessories, regardless of which of these two alternatives you ultimately pick.

Of course, there is another good factor.

Specifications:

Body Comparison:

The side-by-side comparison below shows how big and heavy the Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D5600 are physically.

The two cameras are presented to show how huge they are about one another.

Three viewpoints are available: from the front, the top, and the back.

The D5600 is available in two colors (black and red), but the D3500 is only in black.

Size and Weight:

Size and weight are important considerations when choosing the finest camera.

In this part, we’ll compare the front, back, and top perspectives of the Nikon D3500 and Nikon D5600 to show how their relative sizes compare.

The Nikon D3500 is 365 g (0.80 lb / 12.87 oz) in weight and is 124 x 97 x 70 mm (4.88 x 3.82 x 2.76′′) externally (including batteries).

The Nikon D5600 is 465 g (1.03 lb; 16.40 oz) in weight and measures 124 x 97 x 70 mm (4.88 x 3.82 x 2.76′′) externally (including batteries).

Weight is crucial, particularly when choosing a camera you’ll carry all day.

The Nikon D3500 is 100g lighter than the Nikon D5600, which might be a significant benefit, especially on extended walking expeditions.

In this instance, the Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D5600 have equally sized bodies because their width and height are the same.

The D5600, however, weighs 12 percent more than the D3500.

The size and weight comparisons are lacking because they do not account for the interchangeable lenses necessary for both cameras.

Lenses:

When choosing an interchangeable lens camera, the number of lenses available is essential.

The Nikon D3500 and Nikon D5600 share the Nikon F lens mount, and there are presently 316 native lenses available for these cameras.

Another essential element is image stabilization.

Because these bodies lack sensor-based image stabilization, you must purchase lenses with optical stabilization features.

There are 107 lenses with image stabilization for the Nikon F mount. 

Sensor Comparison:

The sensor size within a digital camera is one of the essential elements impacting image quality.

Compared to smaller pixels in a sensor of the same technical generation, a considerable sensor will, all other things being equal, have larger individual pixel-units that offer superior low-light sensitivity, a more comprehensive dynamic range, and richer color depth.

A big sensor camera will also provide the photographer more control over the depth of field in the picture, improving their ability to separate a subject from the backdrop.

The disadvantage is that bulkier, more expensive camera bodies and lenses typically match with larger sensors.

The APS-C sensor and 1.5 format factor are shared by both cameras (also known as a “crop factor” sometimes).

The cameras under consideration are medium-sized sensor cameras, which balance portability and image quality within the constraints of camera sensors.

Both cameras’ sensors are designed with a 3:2 aspect ratio.

Resolution:

The two cameras under examination have the same sensor size and the exact 24-megapixel resolution.

Due to their comparable sensor specifications, the D3500 and the D5600 will likely have the same pixel density and size.

However, it has been noted that the D3500 is a somewhat more current model than the D5600 (by 1 year and 9 months), and its sensor might have benefited from technological advancements during this time.

It is essential to note that neither of the two cameras has an anti-alias filter installed, allowing them to record all details the sensor can resolve.

Sensitivity Range and CMOS:

The native sensitivity range of the Nikon D3500 is ISO 100 to ISO 25600.

The ISO settings for the Nikon D5600 are identical.

Both cameras include CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) sensors.

Hence, they are both technologically advanced.

Both cameras record RGB colors using a Bayer filter on a grid of square photosensors.

The vast majority of digital cameras are set up in this way.

Today’s cameras frequently record videos in addition to static photos.

Both cameras under review have sensors that can interpret moving images quickly and support the same video standards (1080/60p).

Since 2007, DXO Mark has produced sensor performance measurements using a defined method.

In addition to publishing an overall camera score, this service evaluates and scores the color depth (“DXO Portrait”), dynamic range (“DXO Landscape”), and low-light sensitivity (“DXO Sports”) of camera sensors.

Viewfinder:

The viewfinder on a camera lets the photographer see the subject area you photographed.

Modern cameras frequently serve as a direct visual or rangefinder focusing system and can also be used to display exposure settings or meter data.

Besides body and sensor, cameras can and do vary in other ways.

Besides body and sensor, cameras can and do vary in other ways.

They both have an optical viewfinder, so the D3500 and the D5600 are comparable.

Optical viewfinders offer significantly more excellent performance with clarity, dynamic range, and a close view of the action without delay in some EVF systems.

Even in areas with intense lighting, the latter helps generate a clean image for framing.

The viewfinders on both cameras have the same magnification and field of view (95%). (0.57x).

LCD Screen:

The 3.20″ LCD screen of the Nikon D5600 is a bit bigger than the 3.0″ screen of the Nikon D3500.

The touch sensitivity of the rear screen on the two cameras is one area of distinction.

The D3500 features a traditional panel, whereas the D5600 has a touchscreen.

For instance, touch control can be very beneficial when choosing the focus point.

With fixed screens, you can’t take images or view them from unusual angles, like over your head or at your waist.

Moving screens do. After using one for a while, switching back to a camera without an articulated screen can be challenging.

You can adjust the D5600’s articulating screen to face the user.

Selfie enthusiasts among vloggers and photographers will like this feature.

The D3500, in comparison, lacks a selfie screen.

Intervalometer Built-in:

If your camera has an intervalometer, you may set it up to automatically shoot a set number of pictures at a set interval without you needing to press the shutter or be there.

The built-in intervalometer will stop taking pictures when it takes the predetermined number of images.

An intervalometer is incorporated into the Nikon D5600.

It allows the photographer to capture time-lapse images of things like flower bud formation, a sunset, or the moon’s rise without investing in an external camera trigger and related software.

Memory Card:

The D3500 and the D5600 write their imaging data files to SDXC cards for storage.

UHS-I cards, which provide up to 104 MB/s of Ultra-High-Speed data transfer, are compatible with both cameras.

Although UHS-I cards have slower speeds, they are significantly less expensive.

For still photographers, these are primarily designed.

Connectivity Comparison:

When selecting a camera for a particular imaging application, the degree to which it can interact with its surroundings may be significant.

Notably, the D5600 supports wifi, which might efficiently send image data to a point away from the camera.

The D3500, in comparison, lacks wifi functionality.

The D3500 and the D5600 are both modern models that are currently available.

The Nikon D3500 came after the Nikon D3400, while the Nikon D5600 replaced the previous Nikon D5500.

The D3500 also comes with a Mono speaker and a stereo microphone.

Conversely, the Nikon D3500 lacks connections for external microphones and headphones.

Pentax K-S2 or Pentax K-3 are DSLR cameras in the same price range with connectivity for an external microphone.

The D5600 also comes with a Mono speaker and a stereo microphone.

The Nikon D5600 has an external microphone connector, so you may use it to capture audio in high definition.

It is frustrating that there isn’t a headphone jack.

Battery:

One of the critical factors that will affect how much you like taking images is the battery life of your digital camera.

If you ignore it, there’s a chance you’ll miss that critical shot.

According to CIPA standards, the EN-EL14a battery used in the Nikon D3500 offers 1550 shots of battery life.

The Nikon D3500 has a decent battery life for its class, given that the typical DSLR camera battery life is 948 shots.

According to CIPA regulations, the EN-EL14 battery in the Nikon D5600 has an 820-shot battery life.

Although its battery life is approximately average for its class, DSLR-type cameras typically have a battery life of 948 shots, so getting extra batteries for extended picture excursions is still a good idea.

Flash:

A piece of equipment called a flash emits light momentarily.

Use the flash’s light to compensate for the lack of brightness while capturing dimly lit areas, such as interiors or nighttime scenes.

Light can prevent camera movement and subject blur by giving brief exposure.

The D3500 and the D5600 have built-in flashes, including a flash shoe to mount additional external flashes.

Focusing:

The Nikon D3500 contains autofocus (AF) systems that use contrast and phase detection, ensuring they can focus quickly and precisely in most circumstances.

There are 11 points available in the AF system.

The Nikon D5600 also offers Contrast Detection and Phase Detection autofocus (AF) technologies, guaranteeing quick and accurate focusing in most circumstances.

The AF system has 39 focus points and 9 Cross-type sensors.

Cross-type sensors lock focus more quickly and precisely than single-type sensors do.

Face detection autofocus, which automatically locks focus when it detects faces in the frame, is available on the Nikon D3500 and D5600 cameras.

Frame Per Rate:

“Frame rate” or “Frame per rate” refers to the number of frames that are recorded per second (fps).

The frame rate increases as the finished movie plays more smoothly.

Sixty frames per second (fps) is the highest supported frame rate; 50, 30, 25, and 24 fps are also supported.

The Nikon D5600 is equipped with standard video features.

Full HD movies (1920×1080 pixels) are recorded at high frame rates of up to 60 frames per second (fps).

Additionally, it can record in 24 fps Blu-ray compatible mode.

A 24.2MP CMOS sensor in DX format and an EXPEED 4 image processor allows the Nikon D3500 to shoot continuously at a rate of 5 frames per second (fps).

The APS-C picture sensor used by Nikon is known as the DX format.

It measures 23.5 x 15.6mm and has a native sensitivity range of ISO 100 to 25,600.

Shutter Speed:

When photographing sports, photographers typically use fast shutter speeds to freeze the activity of their subjects.

Fast ISO levels unquestionably result in images of lower quality.

The quality of what has been produced decreases as speed increases.

The maximum shutter speed for the Nikon D3500 and Nikon D5600 is 1/4000 seconds, and they can shoot continuously at a maximum rate of 5.0 frames per second.

Video:

The Nikon D3500 can record films in MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs at a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 at 60, 50, 30, 25, or 24 frames per second.

The Nikon D3500’s Full HD resolution will usually be adequate.

For the best movie quality, though, look at our list of the Top Cameras for 4K (Ultra-HD) Videos.

The Nikon D5600 allows you to simultaneously record films with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 at 60, 50, 30, 25, or 24 frames per second and save them in MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs.

The Nikon D5600’s full HD resolution will be adequate in most situations.

Photography Type:

In this section, we rank and contrast the Nikon D3500 and D5600 for five distinct photography categories to help you decide if you have a particular interest in one or more of these fields.

Sports Photography:

The best sports camera must meet a few specific requirements to keep up with things that move swiftly and unpredictably; a good sports camera must be quick and precise.

Having the most megapixels isn’t the only consideration.

The Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D5600 are GOOD candidates for this genre of photography, with scores of 76 and 77, respectively, for sports photography.

The Nikon D3500 and D5600 will meet your requirements for this kind of photography.

Street Photography:

The most fantastic camera will provide a better in-the-moment photographic experience for street photography.

Street photography requires a lot of being in the moment, pounding the streets, and waiting for that perfect moment when everything comes together.

The most incredible camera for street photography is a topic we could discuss daily.

With a score of 60 for street photography, the Nikon D3500 qualifies as a GOOD option for this kind of photography.

As a result of its score of 64 for street photography, the Nikon D5600 is an even BETTER option for this kind of photography.

The Nikon D5600 and D3500 will meet most of your requirements for this kind of photography.

Landscape Photography:

Since they are typically set on tripods for too long of exposure for handheld photography, cameras used for landscape photography frequently include unique capabilities.

Instead of burst modes or better focusing, the essential features are frequent resolution, build quality, weatherproofing, and overall size.

The Nikon D5600 and the Nikon D3500 score 46 for landscape photography, making them ABOVE-MEDIAN contenders.

Portrait Photography:

When selecting the best camera for portraiture, there are many factors to consider.

One of the most important is using a crop sensor or a full frame.

Nikon D3500 and Nikon D5600 scored 56 for portrait photography, placing them as candidates in the middle of the pack.

Daily Photography:

The Nikon D3500 and Nikon D5600 are GOOD candidates for this style of photography, with scores of 64 for Daily Photography and 63 for Daily Photography, respectively.

The Nikon D3500 and D5600 will satisfy your daily photography demands, but you can also hunt for better solutions.

User Friendly:

Both of these cameras, in my opinion, are pretty user-friendly.

The D5600 is a small camera yet has a sizable 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD.

For beginners, the touchscreen alone is a valuable feature because it makes it much simpler to utilize the camera’s menu system (which can be accessed with a single touch) and to focus when taking live-view photos.

Also, The Nikon D3500 is the finest choice for a beginner if you’re prepared to enhance your photographic abilities and buy your first DSLR camera.

Its top-tier 24-megapixel sensor thrives in low light conditions and can capture clear photographs with excellent dynamic range, meaning both bright and dark regions will display details.

Why should one favor the Nikon D3500?

• Less cumbersome: It is lighter (by 50g or 11%) and easy to carry.
• Longer lasting: Can fire 1550 shots instead of 970 shots on a single charge.
• Less expensive and included in a more affordable category (39 percent cheaper at launch).
• It is a little more recent and modern (announced 1 year and 9 months after the D5600).

Why should one favor the Nikon D5600?

• A connection to an external microphone allows for better sound when recording audio.
• It has a larger rear LCD (3.2″ vs. 3.0″) for reviewing images and controlling settings.
• More thorough LCD: has a back screen with a more excellent resolution (1037k v/s 921k dots).
• The LCD is more versatile because it has a swivel screen that enables odd angles in either portrait or landscape mode.
• Fewer buttons to click: has a touchscreen to make shooting and handling changes easier.
• Possibilities for selfies are improved with an articulated screen that you can adjust to face the front.
• Easy time-lapse photography: Low-frequency shooting with an integrated intervalometer.
• It has built-in wifi for automated backup or image upload to the web, making it easier to upload files.
• More straightforward device pairing: NFC supports quick wireless image transmission over close ranges.
• More deeply reduced; more time spent on the market (launched in November 2016).

Price:

For various reasons, you could be seeking a cheap camera in 2022.

You might opt to start with a first camera that is reasonably priced.

Or, if you’re having trouble making ends meet, you could be looking for a cheap camera that offers excellent value.

While picking a camera, we must take the relative costs into account.

The camera’s manufacturer’s target market niche is clear from the launch expenses provided.

Due to the Nikon D3500‘s price reduction (39% compared to the D5600), it could join a different market segment.

Retail prices often stay close to the launch price for a few months until discounts become available.

Later in the product cycle, particularly when the successor model is set to launch, additional discounts and stock clearance deals frequently bring the camera price even lower.

After launching a new model, incredibly alluring reductions are frequently found on the used car market.

Conclusion:

If the total number of individual benefits (bullet points above) is used as a benchmark, the D5600 is the contest’s undisputed champion (10: 4 points).

However, depending on your preferences and demands, the relative value of the various camera functions will change.

As a result, before choosing a new camera, you may want to assign equivalent weights to the various features.

A professional wildlife photographer may regard camera variances differently from a family photographer, and an architecture enthusiast will have different needs than a sports shooter.

Consequently, choosing the most significant and worthwhile camera is frequently very personal.

You may have already decided which camera best fits your needs and budget, but if you’re curious about how we evaluated the Nikon D3500 and Nikon D5600, you can check their rankings below.

Nikon 5600:

ranked #6 in Compact SLR cameras out of 79

ranked 135th overall out of 1244 cameras

Nikon 3500:

32 out of 79 in the Compact SLR camera category

ranked 1244th out of 1260 for cameras.

Related posts:

Nikon Z5 vs. Nikon Z6 Comparison