Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D3500 Comparison
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
Nikon D3500
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Brand | Canon | Nikon | |
Model | EOS Rebel T8i / 850D | D3500 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 12, 2020 | August 30, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
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The Nikon D3500 edges out the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D with a score of 61/100 compared to Canon’s 59/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, with the Canon being released in 2020 and the Nikon in 2018. They share similarities in size, with the Canon measuring 131 x 103 x 76mm and the Nikon at 124 x 97 x 70mm.
The Canon T8i / 850D is lighter at 515g (1.14lbs) compared to the Nikon D3500’s 615g (1.36lbs). However, the Nikon boasts a lower launch price of $499.95, while the Canon’s launch price is $750.
Despite the Canon’s higher price and slightly lower score, its lighter weight may appeal to some users. On the other hand, the Nikon D3500’s lower price and higher score make it a more attractive option for budget-conscious photographers. Both cameras have their merits, so the choice between them will ultimately depend on individual preferences and priorities.
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D3500 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D3500 outperforms the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D in optics, scoring 65/100 compared to the Canon’s 57/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including 24-megapixel resolution, CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, and lack of image stabilisation. Additionally, both cameras use their respective brands’ lens mounts: Canon EF/EF-S for the T8i and Nikon F for the D3500.
The Nikon D3500’s higher score can be attributed to its superior DXOMARK sensor score of 87, compared to the Canon T8i’s 58. This difference highlights the D3500’s ability to produce better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. Furthermore, the Nikon D3500 uses the Expeed 4 processor, which contributes to its excellent performance in image processing and noise reduction.
On the other hand, the Canon T8i has a faster shooting speed of 7.5 frames per second (fps), compared to the Nikon D3500’s 5 fps. This advantage allows the T8i to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively, making it a better choice for action and sports photography.
While the Nikon D3500 excels in image quality, the Canon T8i offers a faster shooting speed. Photographers who prioritize image quality and low-light performance should choose the Nikon D3500, while those who need a faster shooting speed for action photography may prefer the Canon T8i. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and priorities of the photographer.
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Optics
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Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
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Nikon D3500
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 MP | 24 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6000 x 4000 px | 6000 x 4000 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 14.9 x 22.3 mm | 15.6 x 23.5 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C | APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 7.5 fps | 5 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Canon EF/EF-S | Nikon F | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic 8 | Expeed 4 | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 25,600 | 25,600 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 51200 | 25600 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 4000 s | 1/ 4000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 45 | 11 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   | | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Optical (pentamirror) | Optical (pentamirror) |
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D3500 Video Performance
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D outperforms the Nikon D3500 in video capabilities, with a score of 83/100 compared to the Nikon’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 60fps. However, the Canon T8i surpasses the Nikon D3500 in several aspects, making it the better choice for video enthusiasts.
The Canon T8i offers 4K video resolution with a maximum video dimension of 3840 x 2160, while the Nikon D3500 only provides Full HD resolution with a maximum video dimension of 1920 x 1080. This means that the Canon T8i captures videos with higher quality and detail compared to the Nikon D3500. Additionally, the Canon T8i has built-in time-lapse functionality, which allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without needing additional software or equipment. The Nikon D3500 lacks this feature.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3500 does not have any significant advantages over the Canon T8i in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras have the same maximum video frame rate of 60fps, but the Canon T8i’s higher resolution and time-lapse functionality make it a more versatile and capable choice for video recording.
Considering the specifications and video capabilities, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D is the superior choice when comparing it to the Nikon D3500. With its higher video resolution, larger video dimensions, and built-in time-lapse functionality, the Canon T8i provides users with a more powerful and flexible tool for capturing high-quality videos. The Nikon D3500, while still a decent option for video recording, falls short in comparison to the Canon T8i’s performance.
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Video
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Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
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Nikon D3500
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  4K |  Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 3840 x 2160 px | 1920×1080 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 60 p | 60 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MPEG-4 | MOV |
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D3500 Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D emerges as the winner in this comparison with a feature score of 70/100, while the Nikon D3500 scores 54/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the 3-inch screen size, lack of GPS, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Canon T8i outperforms the Nikon D3500 in several aspects. It has a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots compared to the D3500’s 921,600 dots, resulting in a sharper and clearer display. Additionally, the T8i has a touchscreen, making it more user-friendly and efficient in navigating menus and settings. The T8i also features a flip screen, which is useful for capturing images and videos from different angles and for vlogging. Furthermore, the Canon T8i offers Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for easy transfer of files and remote control of the camera.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3500 does not have any significant advantages over the Canon T8i. It lacks a touchscreen, flip screen, and Wi-Fi connectivity. However, it still offers Bluetooth connectivity, making it possible to transfer files and remotely control the camera, albeit at a slower speed compared to Wi-Fi.
In this comparison, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D proves to be a better camera than the Nikon D3500 due to its higher feature score and additional specifications. The T8i’s touchscreen, flip screen, and Wi-Fi connectivity make it a more versatile and user-friendly option for photographers and videographers alike. While the Nikon D3500 does not offer any significant advantages over the T8i, it remains a decent option for those looking for a budget-friendly camera with basic features and Bluetooth connectivity.
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Features
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Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
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Nikon D3500
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |  | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | LCD | TFT LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,040,000 dots | 921,600 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D3500 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D3500 outperforms the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D in storage and battery with a score of 48/100, compared to the Canon’s 35/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Canon T8i / 850D is compatible with UHS-I cards, offering faster transfer speeds.
The most significant advantage of the Nikon D3500 is its battery life, lasting for 1,550 shots, while the Canon T8i / 850D can only manage 800 shots. This difference makes the Nikon D3500 more suitable for extended shooting sessions without needing to replace or recharge the battery. The batteries themselves differ, with the Nikon using the EN-EL14a and the Canon using the LP-E17. Neither camera offers USB charging.
In terms of storage and battery, the Nikon D3500 is the clear winner due to its longer battery life. The Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D does have an edge with UHS-I card compatibility, but this advantage is not enough to outweigh the Nikon D3500’s strengths in this category.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
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Nikon D3500
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E17 | EN-EL14a | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 800 shots | 1,550 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
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Nikon D3500
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Scores
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Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
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Nikon D3500
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Alternatives to the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D and Nikon D3500
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D or the Nikon D3500:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
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Nikon D3500
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B&H photo video |
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