Nikon D3500 vs D5600 Camera Comparison

Last Updated on: 11th February 2023, 06:17 am

If you’re looking for the perfect camera to help capture all those special moments and you’re confused between D3500 and D5600. You need to check out this comparison guide on the Nikon D3500 and D5600 cameras. We break down their differences, from their specs to their performance capabilities, to determine which might be good for you.

This entry-level DSLR camera is a great alternative to the entry-level DSLR camera available on the market. The Nikon D3500 was launched in August 2018, and the Nikon D5600 was launched in November 2016. Both of them are DSLR cameras with APS-C sensors. Both cameras offer a resolution of 24 Megapixels.

In this article, we’ll compare the two cameras side-by-side to help you decide which is best for your needs. From features to price to size, we’ll cover all the details so that you can make an informed decision.

Quick Comparision:

SpecificationNikon D3500Nikon D5600
Image sensor24.2MP APS-C24.2MP APS-C
Shots per second55
AF points (phase)1139
ISO range100 – 25,600100 – 25,600
Max video resolution1920 x 1080/60 fps1920 x 1080/60 fps
Image stabilizationVia lensVia lens
Time-lapseNoYes
Rear screen3-inch, 640 x 480, fixed3.2-inch, 720 x 480 rotating touchscreen
Screen dots921,0001,037,000
Image ratio3:23:2
Focal length multiplier1.5x1.5x
Size4.9 x 3.9 x 2.8 inches4.9 x 3.9 x 2.8 inches
Weight12.9 ounces14.7 ounces
File formatJPEG (Exif v2.3)NEF (RAW, 12-bit)JPEG (Exif v2.3)Raw (Nikon NEF, 12 or 14-bit) 

What are Nikon D3500 and Nikon D5600?

Nikon D3500:

The Nikon D3500 is a digital SLR camera that offers a variety of features and functions for users. It features a 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor, allowing high-quality images and videos. The D3500 also has an EXPEED 4 image processing engine, which provides fast and efficient image processing.

Additionally, the camera has a 3-inch LCD screen, making it easy to view and edit images and videos. The Nikon D3500 also offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows users to transfer files between the camera and their computer or other devices.

Pros

  • User-friendly controls and menu
  • Excellent image quality
  • Fast and accurate autofocus
  • 5fps continuous shooting
  • Good battery life
  • Automatic image transfer via Bluetooth
  • Built-in guide mode
  • Compact and lightweight body

Cons

  • No touch-screen
  • Limited video capabilities
  • Fixed LCD screen

Nikon D5600:

The Nikon D5600 is a digital SLR camera that offers a variety of features and functions for photography enthusiasts. It features a 24.2-megapixel sensor and an EXPEED 4 image-processing engine for high-quality images and videos.

The camera also has a 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD for easy operation and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Besides the 39 autofocus points on the D5600, it is equipped with a five fps shooting speed and the capability to record full HD video at 1080p in full HD.

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable
  • Excellent image quality
  • Fast and responsive
  • User-friendly interface
  • vari-angle LCD screen
  • 5 fps shooting
  • 39-point autofocus system
  • Lots of features and customization options

Cons

  • Battery life could be better
  • No built-in flash
  • No 4K video recording
  • It has smooth 5fps but some time reduce to 4fps

Nikon D3500 and Nikon D5600 – Features:

To explain their features following will be the complete comparison guide of the both cameras:

Body Composition:

In choosing a camera you’re going to carry around all day, weight is an important factor. The Nikon D3500 is 365 g (0.80 lb / 12.87 oz) in weight and in size 124 x 97 x 70 mm (4.88 x 3.82 x 2.76′′) externally (including batteries).

Nikon D5600 weighs 465 grams (1.03 lbs; 16.40 oz) in weight, it measures 465 grams (1.03 lbs; 16.40 oz) measures 124 x 97 x 70 mm (4.88 x 3.82 x 2.76′′) externally (including batteries).

A significant advantage of the Nikon D3500 is that it is 100g lighter than the Nikon D5600. Although the D5600 is 12 per cent heavier than the D3500, it might be a significant advantage, especially in extended hiking expeditions.

Sensor:

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

Both cameras, D3500 and D5600 have an APS-C sensor and a 1.5 format factor, sometimes called a “crop factor.”There is a 3:2 aspect ratio on the sensor of both cameras.

Resolution:

A sensor size of the same size and a resolution of the same 24 megapixels are shared by both cameras under examination, the D3500 and D5600. Considering the similar sensor specifications of the D3500 and D5600, the two cameras will likely have the same pixel density.

Despite this, the D3500 is a more recent model than the D5600 and that the sensor might have benefited from technological advancements during that period.

Sensitivity Range & CMOS:

A Nikon D3500 camera has a native sensitivity range of 100 to 25600. A Nikon D5600 camera has a similar ISO setting. Both cameras have CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) sensors.

Due to technological advances, both cameras record RGB colours using a Bayer filter on a square photo lens grid. Digital cameras are generally designed this way.

Increasingly, cameras today are capable of recording both still images as well as videos. Both cameras reviewed here are equipped with sensors that can interpret moving images quickly and support the same video standard (1080/60p).

Viewfinder:

Using the viewfinder on a camera allows the photographer to view the photographed subject matter. Modern cameras are frequently used as either direct visual or rangefinder focusing systems.

They can also be used to display settings for exposures or meter readings. In both the D3500 and D5600, the optical viewfinders are the same. The magnification and field of view are the same on both cameras, that is, 0.57x – 95%.

In some EVF systems, optical viewfinders provide a clearer, more dynamic image and a close-up view of the action without delay. The latter makes framing shots easier in areas with intense lighting.

Video:

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

Using the Nikon D5600, you can simultaneously record movies at a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 at 60, 50, 30, 25, or 24 frames per second. Despite being a full HD camera, the Nikon D5600’s full HD resolution will be sufficient for most situations.

Frame rate:

The Nikon D5600 supports a frame rate of 60 frames per second (fps), 50, 30 frames per second (fps), 25 frames per second (fps), and 24 frames per second (fps). Video recording is supported with the Nikon D5600 at high frame rates of up to 60 frames per second (fps).

The Nikon D3500 has a 24.2MP CMOS sensor in DX format and an EXPEED 4 image processor that enables it to shoot continuously at a rate of five frames per second (fps). The Nikon DX-format is the equivalent of the APS-C image sensor used by Nikon.

Shutter Speed:

There is a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000 second for the Nikon D3500 and Nikon D5600, and they can shoot continuously at a maximum rate of 5.0 frames per second. As the camera speed increases, the image’s quality will decrease. Fast ISO levels will unquestionably result in pictures of lower quality.

Focusing:

With the Nikon D3500, autofocus (AF) uses both contrast and phase detection, ensuring the camera can focus quickly and accurately under most conditions. There are 11 points available for AF.

While the Nikon D5600 also offers Contrast Detection and Phase Detection autofocus (AF) technologies, which guarantee quick and accurate focusing in most circumstances. The AF system has 39 focus points and 9 cross-type sensors.

Nikon D3500 and D5600 cameras feature face detection autofocus, which automatically locks focus when it detects faces in the frame.

Lenses:

Nikon D3500 and D5600 are equipped with Nikon F lens mounts, which can use 316 native lenses at the moment. Image stabilization is another essential feature. Because these cameras don’t have sensor-based image stabilization, you must purchase lenses with optical stabilization. Currently, 107 lenses are equipped with image stabilization for the Nikon F mount. 

LCD Screen:

Although the Nikon D5600 features a 3.20-inch LCD screen, it is a bit bigger than the Nikon D3500, which features a 3.0-inch LCD screen.

One area of distinction between the two cameras is the touch screen used on the rear. The D3500 uses a traditional panel, while the D5600 uses a touchscreen.

Memory Card:

It should be noted that the D3500 and D5600 store all the files that accompany their images on SDXC cards.UHS-I cards, which are compatible with both cameras and provide up to 104 MB/s of Ultra-High-Speed data transfer, are compatible with either camera. Although UHS-I cards are slower, they are much cheaper.

Battery:

A crucial factor affecting how much you like taking pictures is how long your digital camera’s battery life will last. According to CIPA standards, the EN-EL14a battery with the Nikon D3500 will last 1550 shots. A Nikon D5600 battery will last 820 photos if it is operated in accordance with the CIPA regulations.

Microphone:

A Mono speaker and a stereo microphone are also included in the D3500. However, the Nikon D3500 does not have connectors for external microphones and headphones.

In contrast, the Nikon D5600 has a mono speaker and a microphone. With the Nikon D5600, you can capture audio in high definition with its external microphone connector, so you can also use it to capture audio.

Wi-Fi Connectivity:

The D5600 offers Wi-Fi connectivity, which might be efficient in dealing with the transfer of image data from the camera to a device outside the device itself, compared to the D3500, which lacks this capability.

Which one is right for you Nikon D3500 or D5600?

A few key differences between the Nikon D3500 and D5600 DSLR cameras may help you decide which is right. 

The D3500 is slightly smaller and lighter than the D5600, making it a good choice for travel photography. It also has a slightly longer battery life, meaning you can go longer between charges. 

The D3500 has a fixed LCD screen, while the D5600’s LCD screen is articulated, making it easier to take photos at odd angles. 

The D5600 also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to transfer files to your computer or share them online easily.

If you’re looking for a compact, lightweight camera that’s easy to carry around, the D3500 is a great option. If you need more shooting angles and connectivity flexibility, then the D5600 is the better choice.

Conclusion

The Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D5600 have their own strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, which is right for you will depend on your photography needs, budget, and personal preferences. The Nikon D3500 is an excellent entry-level camera with a great price point. At the same time, the Nikon D5600 offers more advanced features at a higher price tag. Whichever one you choose, both will surely provide you with amazing images you’ll cherish for years to come.

FAQs

Is Nikon D5600 good at night?

You can use the Nikon D5600 to dial in shutter speeds for exposures up to 30 seconds. It also has a bulb mode, which means you can use the camera to capture exposures that are as long as you like, which is very useful for those who are seriously interested in night photography.

Does Nikon D3500 shoot 4K?

You won’t be able to shoot 4K video with this camera, but you can shoot HD 1920 x 1080 videos at 60/50 frames per second. Wi-Fi is not available either, but you can use the built-in Bluetooth feature to transfer images to your smartphone and, in this latest model, to activate the shutter remotely from your phone.

Is Nikon D3500 waterproof?

As for being weather-sealed, waterproof or otherwise ruggedised, the Nikon D3500 does not have such features. Therefore, you should exercise caution when using it in damp conditions. Weather-sealed models are available in Nikon’s D7 series, which means you have to increase in price to find one.

David Wanson
David Wanson

I have professional photography experience of about 18 years and I would to share my experience with lenses built by different brands. As a professional photographer from the USA, I have used a number of photography lenses during that time. As a result of my experience with these programs, I would like to share my experiences with you on this website. I wish for this website to serve as the final destination for people seeking the best lenses to suit their needs. Our unbiased reviews can be found on cameraslens.

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