Nikon D3300 vs Nikon D3500
Comparison
Nikon D3300
Nikon D3500
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Brand | Nikon | Nikon | |
Model | D3300 | D3500 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 07, 2014 | August 30, 2018 | |
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The Nikon D3500 emerges as the winner with a score of 61/100, while the Nikon D3300 scores 55/100. Both cameras are DSLR types and share similar dimensions, with the D3500 measuring 124 x 97 x 70mm and the D3300 at 124 x 98 x 76mm. Furthermore, they both share the same announcement date and release year, with the D3300 announced on 01/07/2014 and the D3500 on 08/30/2018.
The D3500 outperforms the D3300 with its lower launch price of $499.95 compared to the D3300’s $650. However, the D3300 has a slight advantage in terms of weight, being lighter at 430g compared to the D3500’s 615g.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D3500 is a better option due to its lower price and higher score, while the D3300 might be preferred by those seeking a lighter camera.
Nikon D3300 vs D3500 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D3500 emerges as the winner in optics with a score of 65/100, while the Nikon D3300 scores 64/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as 24 megapixels, a shooting speed of 5, a CMOS sensor type, an Expeed 4 processor, an APS-C sensor size, a Nikon F lens mount, and no image stabilization.
The D3500 outperforms the D3300 in one key aspect: the DXOMARK score for the sensor. The D3500 has a DXOMARK score of 87, which is 5 points higher than the D3300’s score of 82. This means that the D3500’s sensor delivers better image quality, particularly in terms of dynamic range, color depth, and low-light performance.
On the other hand, the D3300 has a slight advantage in terms of megapixels, boasting 24.2 megapixels compared to the D3500’s 24 megapixels. This difference is minimal and may not be noticeable in most shooting situations. However, the extra 0.2 megapixels could provide a slight edge in image resolution and detail for large prints or heavy cropping.
Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses in optics. The D3500 takes the lead with a better DXOMARK sensor score, resulting in improved image quality. The D3300, although slightly behind, offers marginally higher resolution. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras comes down to personal preference and specific photographic needs. While the D3500 has a slight edge in optics, the D3300 remains a strong contender in this category.
Optics
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 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. | 15.4 x 23.2 mm | 15.6 x 23.5 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |||
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 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. | Nikon F DX | Nikon F | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Expeed 4 | 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. | |||
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. | 12,800 | 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. | 25600 | 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. | 11 | 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) |
Nikon D3300 vs D3500 Video Performance
Comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon D3300 and Nikon D3500, both cameras have an equal score of 56/100. This means that these cameras share similar video specifications, with neither of them outperforming the other in this aspect.
Both cameras have a maximum video resolution of Full HD (1920×1080) and can record at a maximum frame rate of 60fps. This ensures that users can capture high-quality videos with smooth motion. Furthermore, neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality, which means that photographers who are interested in time-lapse photography will need to rely on external tools or software for this purpose.
Despite having the same score, there may be minor differences in video quality between the two cameras due to factors such as sensor performance, image processing, and color reproduction. However, these differences are not significant enough to declare one camera as superior to the other in terms of video capabilities.
As there are no clear advantages in video performance for either the Nikon D3300 or the Nikon D3500, potential buyers should consider other factors such as price, ergonomics, and additional features when deciding which camera to purchase. Both cameras are suitable for users looking for Full HD video recording at 60fps, and the equal score of 56/100 reflects their similar capabilities in this area.
Video
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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. | |||
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. | 1920 x 1080 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. | MOV | MOV |
Nikon D3300 vs D3500 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D3500 outperforms the Nikon D3300 with a feature score of 54/100, compared to the D3300’s 41/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size and lack of touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and WIFI capabilities.
The D3500’s superiority stems from its slightly higher screen resolution, at 921,600 dots compared to the D3300’s 921,000 dots. This difference results in a marginally clearer and sharper display for the D3500. The most significant advantage of the D3500 over the D3300 is its Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for easier file transfer and remote control of the camera.
In contrast, the D3300 does not surpass the D3500 in any specific feature. Both cameras have identical screen sizes and lack several functions, making the D3300 a less appealing option compared to the D3500.
Considering the feature scores and specifications, the Nikon D3500 is the superior camera due to its marginally better screen resolution and Bluetooth connectivity. The Nikon D3300 does not offer any advantages over the D3500, making it a less attractive option for potential buyers.
Features
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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. | |||
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Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 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. | |||
Nikon D3300 vs D3500 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D3500 outperforms the Nikon D3300 in storage and battery with a score of 48/100, while the D3300 receives a score of 32/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. They also share the same battery type, the EN-EL14a, but neither offers USB charging.
The D3500 excels with its battery life, providing 1550 shots per charge, significantly more than the D3300’s 700 shots. This advantage allows users to capture more images without worrying about battery depletion.
The D3300 does not have any specific advantages in storage and battery compared to the D3500. Its lower score reflects its shorter battery life, which may limit its usability in extended shooting sessions.
Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Nikon D3500 is the superior choice due to its longer battery life, while both cameras share similar storage capabilities.
Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots | |||
Battery Type | EN-EL14a | EN-EL14a | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 700 shots | 1,550 shots | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | N/A | ||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 24.3 bits | N/A | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 12.8 EVs | N/A | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 1385 | N/A |
Scores
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Nikon D3300
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Nikon D3500
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Alternatives to the Nikon D3300 and D3500
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D3300 or the Nikon D3500:
User Scores
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B&H photo video |
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