Nikon D3400 vs D3500 Comparison
Nikon D3400
Nikon D3500
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Brand | Nikon | Nikon | |
Model | D3400 | D3500 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 17, 2016 | August 30, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D3400 and Nikon D3500 are both DSLR cameras that share an equal score of 61/100. They have several common specifications, such as camera type and size, with dimensions of 124 x 98 x 76mm for the D3400 and 124 x 97 x 70mm for the D3500. The D3500, however, has a more affordable launch price of $499.95 compared to the D3400’s $650, making it a better option for budget-conscious buyers.
The D3500 surpasses the D3400 in terms of its release date, as it was announced in 2018, two years after the D3400 in 2016. This gives the D3500 a slight edge in terms of newer technology. On the other hand, the D3400 is lighter, weighing only 445g (0.98lbs) compared to the D3500’s 615g (1.36lbs), making it more convenient for photographers who prioritize portability and ease of use.
Taking into account these factors, the Nikon D3500 offers better value for money and newer technology, while the Nikon D3400 has the advantage of being lighter and more portable.
Nikon D3400 vs D3500 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D3400 and D3500 both receive an optics score of 65/100. They share several common specifications, including a 24-megapixel CMOS sensor, 5 fps shooting speed, Expeed 4 processor, APS-C sensor size, and Nikon F lens mount. Neither camera offers image stabilization.
The Nikon D3500 slightly surpasses the D3400 with a DXOMARK sensor score of 87, compared to the D3400’s score of 86. This higher score indicates the D3500 provides marginally better image quality. However, the difference is minimal and may not be noticeable in everyday shooting situations.
The Nikon D3400 has a slight advantage in terms of megapixels, boasting 24.2 compared to the D3500’s 24. This difference, though small, allows the D3400 to capture slightly more detail in images. Again, this difference may not be significant for most users.
Despite the minor differences between the two cameras, both the Nikon D3400 and D3500 offer solid performance in terms of optics. The D3500’s marginally better DXOMARK sensor score gives it a slight edge in image quality, while the D3400’s additional 0.2 megapixels provide a negligible advantage in capturing detail. Ultimately, both cameras are suitable options for photographers seeking quality optics in an entry-level DSLR.
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Optics
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Nikon D3400
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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. | 24.2 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. | 15.6 x 23.5 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. | 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. |  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. | 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 D3400 vs D3500 Video Performance
The Nikon D3400 and Nikon D3500 both have a video score of 56/100, indicating that their video capabilities are evenly matched. They share several key video specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of Full HD, maximum video dimensions of 1920×1080, and a maximum video frame rate of 60fps. Additionally, neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
Comparing the two cameras, there are no significant differences in video capabilities that make one camera better than the other. Both the Nikon D3400 and the Nikon D3500 offer the same video quality and performance. This means that users can expect similar results when recording videos with either camera.
While there are no major advantages for either camera in terms of video capabilities, it is worth noting that both models offer solid performance for their price range. The Nikon D3400 and D3500 are budget-friendly options for those looking to capture high-quality video without breaking the bank. The Full HD resolution and 60fps frame rate allow for smooth and detailed video recording, suitable for various purposes such as vlogging, travel videos, and basic filmmaking.
Given the identical video scores and shared specifications, it is clear that both the Nikon D3400 and the Nikon D3500 offer comparable video capabilities. Users can confidently choose either camera, knowing that they will receive similar video performance and quality. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras should be based on other factors, such as budget, design, and additional features, as their video capabilities are evenly matched.
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Video
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Nikon D3400
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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. |  Full HD | 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. | 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 D3400 vs D3500 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D3400 and Nikon D3500 both have a feature score of 54/100. This implies that these cameras share many similarities in terms of their features.
Both cameras have a 3-inch screen size and almost the same screen resolution, with the D3400 at 921,000 dots and the D3500 at 921,600 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen or a flip screen. Additionally, both cameras lack GPS and WIFI capabilities but have Bluetooth connectivity.
Despite having the same feature score, the Nikon D3500 has a slight advantage over the D3400 in terms of screen resolution. This difference, however, is minimal and not significant enough to create a notable impact on the overall user experience.
On the other hand, there is no particular area where the Nikon D3400 outshines the D3500. Both cameras have identical scores and similar specifications, making it difficult to find a unique advantage for the D3400.
In comparing the Nikon D3400 and D3500, it is clear that both cameras are quite similar in terms of features. The only difference is the slightly higher screen resolution of the D3500, which may not be significant enough for most users. Therefore, the choice between these cameras should be based on other factors such as price, availability, and personal preference.
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Features
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Nikon D3400
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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. | 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 D3400 vs D3500 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D3500 wins in storage and battery with a score of 48/100, while the Nikon D3400 scores 45/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Neither camera supports USB charging. They also share the same battery type, EN-EL14a.
The D3500 outperforms the D3400 in battery life, offering 1550 shots compared to the D3400’s 1200 shots. This longer battery life makes the D3500 more suitable for extended shooting sessions.
The D3400 does not have any advantages over the D3500 in terms of storage and battery. The three-point difference in score is entirely due to the D3500’s superior battery life.
Considering storage and battery, the Nikon D3500 is the better choice due to its longer battery life, while the Nikon D3400 falls short in this aspect. This difference should be taken into account when deciding between the two cameras.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D3500
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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. | 1,200 shots | 1,550 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D3400
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Nikon D3500
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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.' | 24.8 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.' | 13.9 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' | 1192 | N/A |
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Scores
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D3500
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Alternatives to the Nikon D3400 and D3500
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D3400 or the Nikon D3500:
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User Scores
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D3500
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B&H photo video |
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