It’s undeniable that Nikon is a leader in creating some of today’s most remarkable cameras. They have introduced a range of products featuring advanced technology, ensuring you can easily find a model that suits your needs and financial constraints. Given the availability of such premium options, making a decision to select just one can be tough.
Even after doing your research, you’re confused between the Nikon D5600 and the Nikon D3500. Both cameras have excellent reviews, with only a few differences between them. However, the Nikon D5600 has more advanced functions since it is relatively new. On the other hand, the D3500 is an excellent camera and is far less expensive. Since getting a DSLR on a budget is difficult, the D3500’s low price has been a game-changer. As a result, you might be tempted to get the D3500.
Aside from the price, it isn’t easy to choose between these two cameras because they’re both high-performing and affordable. In this article, we’ll compare the Nikon D5600 with the Nikon D3500 in detail to help determine which camera is right for you. So please stick with us to the conclusion.
Why Nikon D5600?
When faced with the debate of the Nikon D5600 vs. D3500, the former comes out at the top. The Nikon D5600 provides features that are much more advanced compared to its competitors. Not only does this camera perform great for portrait photography, but it also provides excellent results for action images and films.
About the Nikon D3500
Released in 2018, the Nikon D3500 is the successor and undoubtedly the better version of the D3400. Despite being over three years old, it is one of the best digital cameras for beginners and offers excellent image quality for landscape, street, and party photography.
The D3500 is a base-level digital camera that includes all the essential functions, competing with many of the latest versions. Although some cameras have far more advanced technology and features, the D3500 provides excellent value for money.
The D3500 is compact and lightweight, with a powerful battery that lets you shoot for hours. It also supports the Bluetooth data transfer feature, allowing you to transfer footage in minutes. However, as a downside, the Nikon D3500 does not feature an external mic jack.
Regardless, this camera has nearly all the features a beginner would need to get started on their journey. The D3500’s affordability makes it far more accessible than some of Nikon’s other models.
About the Nikon D5600
The D5600 comes top of the list when comparing Nikon cameras because of the camera’s additional modern technologies. This camera belongs to the D5000 range of Nikon, which has evolved immensely over time. The line started with essential features initially, but now the features of the D5600 make photography more accessible.
The smooth data transferring through the SnapBridge application saves the photographer from the hassle of sending pictures. You can’t go wrong with this camera between the wireless connectivity, rear screen LCD, and advanced camera settings.
The Nikon D5600 is great for standard video capturing, action photography, sports photography, street photography, and so much more. Indeed, it is a one-of-a-kind camera that can be used to capture any event. While it is a little pricier than the D3500, this camera’s additional features are worth the extra money.
Similarities Between the Nikon D3500 and the Nikon d5600
Grip and Weather Sealing
Compared to the size of most DSLRs, the Nikon D3500 and the D5600 are pretty compact and portable. They have firm grips that allow stable picture and video capture.
Unfortunately, the drawback for both models is their lack of weather sealing. Due to the absence of weather sealing, you will have to be extra careful during outdoor shoots in the event of rain.
Ease of Use
The Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D6500 provide an almost similar user experience. The control system is easy to understand, and since these cameras are geared toward everyday photography, their interface is made simple and user-friendly.
Both cameras have user guides that help users quickly understand the settings and modes. The Nikon D3500’s guide mode makes the setup process convenient for the user.
Image Quality
The Nikon D5600 and D3500 produce excellent image quality. For budget-friendly and entry-level DSLR cameras, both provide superior results. The cameras are identical in that they both have a 24.2-megapixel image sensor. With these sensors, these cameras capture sharper images.
In addition, the Nikon D3500 and D5600 perform equally well in low light. They can provide sharp and accurate images even in dark environments.
Shooting Video
The video quality of the Nikon D5600 and D3500 is almost just as good as their picture quality. The Nikon D5600 and D3500 can capture video resolution of 1080p, which is excellent for their price point.
On the other hand, these cameras are unsuitable for professional-quality videography involving action scenes or stunts, as these videos will often come out blurry.
Lenses
The Nikon D3500 and D5600 come with standard Nikon F mount lenses. However, if you choose to upgrade, several lenses are available for purchase that are compatible with both the D3500 and the D5600. Another thing to note is that these DSLR cameras both lack sensor-based image stabilization. However, the good news is that you can choose from over 100 compatible lenses to provide this image stabilization.
When purchasing a DSLR camera, know that plenty of lenses are available on the market, each with features that improve picture and video quality. A good lens should be able to provide enhanced picture zooming without affecting the image’s sharpness. With some research, you can customize your camera according to your preferences.
Differences Between the Nikon D5600 and Nikon D3500
Design and Build
Something to consider when buying a DSLR camera is the build of the camera’s body. With regards to the Nikon D3500 and D5600, both look like your classic DSLR. While they aren’t particularly flashy in appearance, their classic look is worth their reasonable value in price.
The Nikon D3500 is made of polycarbonate, while the body of the D5600 comprises carbon fiber composite. Both DSLRs can handle temperatures between 0 and 40 degrees Celsius.
The Nikon D3500 is relatively light in weight as it weighs about 365 grams, while the Nikon D5600 weighs 465 grams along with its battery and memory card. You might want to consider the difference in weight if you plan to take your camera hiking, camping, etc. Rigorous activities would require a lightweight camera, as you’ll have plenty to carry around as is.
LCD Screens
There is quite a difference between the LCD screens of the Nikon D3500 and the. D5600. The Nikon D3500 has a 3-inch LCD screen with 640 x 480 resolution. However, the D5600 provides a 3.2-inch LCD screen with a higher 720 x 480 resolution. In addition, the D5600 screen tilts to provide accessible angles, while the D3500 does not.
The D3500 has a smaller LCD screen, allowing space for the extra buttons that enable the self-timer and continuous shooting features. The D5600 offers a fast and efficient touch screen that helps change the focus points easily, while the D3500 does not.
Autofocus Points and Flash
A camera must possess as many autofocus points as possible for portrait photography. When comparing the Nikon D5600 and the D3500, the D5600 has more focus points, providing more areas for subject positioning while maintaining focus. As a result, the D5600 can produce pictures with higher resolution. This is not to say that you should rule out the D3500. The D3500 still has 11 autofocus points, making it an excellent option for portrait photography.
The Nikon D3500 and D5600 come with a built-in flash. In flash photography, the D5600 performs better because its built-in flashlight can capture from a distance of 12 meters. In contrast, the flash of the D3500 can capture an object from seven meters away.
Battery Life
The battery life of a DSLR camera is crucial, especially in event photography when you need to capture a photograph at any moment. The Nikon D5600 and the D3500 are suitable for full-day shoots, requiring plenty of battery life. In that regard, both the D3500 and the D5600 are satisfactory.
The D5600 can provide 970 shots with a single full charge and a decent battery life for a DSLR camera. That being said, between the Nikon D3500 and the D5600, the D3500 has longer battery life. In addition, it can capture 1550 shots after a full recharge, which means you may not need to charge it daily. Hence, you can take this camera with you on camping or hiking trips without worrying about charging your battery.
Microphone
A built-in stereo microphone in the D5600 records optimal audio levels in captured videos. You can also attach an external mic and adjust advanced microphone adjustments for richer sound quality. The Nikon D3500, on the other hand, does not support external microphone input as it lacks a microphone port.
Wireless Connectivity
Both cameras support Bluetooth connectivity for data transferring. Using a free Snapbridge application, you can share your pictures to your Android or iOS device. You can transfer 2 MP versions of your images in just a few seconds.
Fortunately, the D5600 has Wi-Fi connectivity in addition to Bluetooth connectivity. This feature allows you to have better control over the digital camera when using a mobile application. This way, data transferring is much smoother and more efficient. Moreover, you can also preview images, control the shutter release button, and set the AF points. The D3500, on the other hand, only supports Bluetooth connectivity, setting it apart from its competitor.
Affordability
The Nikon D3500 and the D5600 come at reasonable prices, considering the quality of work they provide. The D3500 is budget-friendly, making it suitable for you if you’re beginning to learn photography and looking for a quality entry-level DSLR.
At first glance, the Nikon D5600 is a bit pricier than the D3500. However, the D5600 has features that the D3500 lacks, which makes up for the price difference. For example, the D5600 has more autofocus points, making it more suitable for action-based photography. If you have the budget, the D5600 is worth considering. The extra money you would spend on the D5600 improves the overall picture quality and user experience.
Which Camera Should You Buy?: Nikon D3500 vs. Nikon D5600
We believe the Nikon D5600 surpasses the D3500 in quality and value. The D5600 is a better investment due to its increased image quality, rear screen, additional autofocus points, and timelapse feature. The D5600 also provides a more extended flashlight range to capture sharp images in low light, and wireless connectivity supports a smoother data transferring method.
Moreover, the D5600 has a sturdy body with a built-in stereo microphone, allowing for better sound quality. This ideal camera’s efficient image sensor captures the scene’s true essence, making your memories even more cherishable. It comes with a Nikon F mount lens, which you can upgrade to any lens of your choice. All in all, the D5600 is the complete package for a passionate photographer.
The Nikon D5600 is our choice because it has many extra features and provides better results. You can get access to all of these additional features and increased image quality for an extra bit of money. The D5600 is perfect for professional and personal photography, making it a suitable camera for anyone. If you have doubts about the D5600, we assure you that this camera is of excellent quality and worth every cent.
That said, if you’re on a tighter budget or maybe just starting out with photography, the Nikon D5600 may be too over budget for your liking. In which case, the Nikon D3500 is still an excellent DSLR option for you. It will serve as a great beginner DSLR with all the essential features.
Final Verdict
The two cameras are excellent entry-level DSLR options to conclude the Nikon D3500 vs. D5600 debate. Depending on your budget and what you plan to use the camera for, you could go with either camera and be satisfied with their quality and performance. The D3500 is a great budget-friendly option with plenty of features to keep you happy, while the D5600 is a bit more expensive with a broader range of features to experiment with.
After conducting our research, our choice remains clear: the D5600 is a better overall camera if you can afford it. The D5600 has more autofocus points, a rotating LCD screen, an external microphone port, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a better flash distance of 12 meters.
Before buying any DSLR camera, you should consider which features you desire the most and set a budget for yourself. A camera is a long-term investment, so you should purchase a camera that you will be happy with for at least a few years. We assure you that if you buy the Nikon D5600, you won’t be disappointed.
