Nikon D3400 vs D500 Comparison
Nikon D3400
Nikon D500
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Brand | Nikon | Nikon | |
Model | D3400 | D500 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2016 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 17, 2016 | January 06, 2016 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D500 outperforms the Nikon D3400 with a score of 75/100 compared to 61/100. Both cameras share similarities as DSLR cameras released in 2016. They have common specifications like camera type and release year. The D500 excels with a higher score, justifying its higher launch price of $2000 compared to the D3400’s $650.
The D500’s superior performance is reflected in its larger dimensions (147 x 115 x 81mm) and heavier weight (860g / 1.90lbs). However, the D3400 has the advantage of being more compact (124 x 98 x 76mm) and lightweight (445g / 0.98lbs), making it more portable and convenient for casual photographers.
Taking all aspects into account, the Nikon D500 offers better overall performance, while the Nikon D3400 provides a more budget-friendly and portable option.
Nikon D3400 vs D500 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D500 takes the lead in optics with a score of 69/100, outperforming the Nikon D3400, which scored 65/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a CMOS sensor, an APS-C sensor size, Nikon F DX lens mount, and the absence of image stabilization.
The D500’s superiority in optics is evident in its faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second (fps), compared to the D3400’s 5 fps. Additionally, the D500 houses a more advanced Expeed 5 processor, contributing to its overall enhanced performance.
On the other hand, the D3400 boasts a higher megapixel count of 24.2, as opposed to the D500’s 20.9 megapixels. This results in slightly larger and more detailed images. Moreover, the D3400 has a marginally better DXOMARK score for the sensor at 86, compared to the D500’s score of 84, indicating a slight advantage in image quality.
Despite the D3400’s edge in megapixels and sensor score, the D500’s faster shooting speed and advanced processor make it the superior choice in optics. The D3400, however, remains a viable option for those prioritizing higher image resolution and a slightly better sensor score. In the end, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
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Optics
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D500
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 20.9 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 | 5568 x 3712 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 | 15.7 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 | 10 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 DX | |
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 5 | |
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 | 50 | |
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 | 51,200 | |
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 | 50 | |
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 | 1640000 | |
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/ 8000 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 | 153 | |
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 (pentaprism) |
Nikon D3400 vs D500 Video Performance
The Nikon D500 outperforms the Nikon D3400 in video capabilities, scoring 70/100 compared to the D3400’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a maximum video frame rate of 60fps for the D3400 and 30fps for the D500. However, the D500 surpasses the D3400 in other aspects, making it a superior choice for video recording.
One significant advantage of the Nikon D500 is its 4K video resolution, offering a maximum video dimension of 3840 x 2160. This is a considerable improvement from the Nikon D3400, which only provides Full HD and a maximum video dimension of 1920 x 1080. The higher resolution of the D500 ensures sharper and more detailed videos, making it a preferred choice for professional videographers and enthusiasts alike.
Another notable feature of the Nikon D500 is its built-in time-lapse functionality. This capability allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment. Unfortunately, the Nikon D3400 lacks this feature, which may limit its appeal for those interested in time-lapse videography.
Despite its lower score, the Nikon D3400 offers a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the D500’s 30fps. This higher frame rate can be beneficial for capturing fast action scenes or creating smoother slow-motion videos. However, this advantage may not be significant enough to outweigh the other superior features of the D500.
Considering the differences in video capabilities, the Nikon D500 is the clear winner, offering 4K video resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. While the Nikon D3400 has a higher maximum video frame rate, it falls short in other vital aspects, making the D500 a more suitable choice for those seeking advanced video features.
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Video
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D500
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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 |  4K | |
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 | 3840 x 2160 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 | 30 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 D500 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D500 emerges as the winner in the features comparison, scoring 87/100, while the Nikon D3400 trails behind with a score of 54/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a lack of GPS and the presence of Bluetooth connectivity.
The D500 outperforms the D3400 in several key areas. It boasts a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the D3400’s 3 inches. Additionally, the D500’s screen resolution is significantly higher at 2,359,000 dots, providing a sharper and clearer display than the D3400’s 921,000 dots. The D500 also features a touchscreen and a flip screen, making it more versatile and user-friendly for various shooting situations. Furthermore, the D500 offers Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for easy file transfer and remote control of the camera.
On the other hand, the D3400 has fewer advantages over the D500. However, its lower feature score may still be appealing to some users, specifically beginners or those looking for a more budget-friendly option.
Considering the differences in feature scores and specifications, the Nikon D500 is the superior camera in terms of usability and functionality. Its larger screen size, higher screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, and Wi-Fi connectivity offer a more enjoyable and convenient user experience. The Nikon D3400, while lacking in comparison, may still be a suitable choice for those prioritizing budget or simplicity.
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Features
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D500
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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 | 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" |  3.2" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 2,359,000 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 D500 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D500 outperforms the Nikon D3400 in storage and battery with a score of 79/100, while the D3400 scores 45/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, and neither offers USB charging.
The D500 excels with two memory card slots and compatibility with UHS-II and XQD cards, providing more storage options and faster performance. Its battery life is slightly longer at 1240 shots compared to the D3400’s 1200 shots, and it uses the EN-EL15 battery type.
The D3400, on the other hand, has only one memory card slot and lacks UHS-II and XQD compatibility. Its battery life is marginally lower, and it uses the EN-EL14a battery type. Despite these disadvantages, the D3400 may still be suitable for casual photographers with less demanding storage and battery needs.
Considering these factors, the Nikon D500 offers superior storage capabilities and battery life, making it a better choice for professional photographers or those with more demanding requirements. The Nikon D3400, while not as advanced, can suffice for users with modest needs.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D500
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), XQD | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL14a | EN-EL15 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 1,200 shots | 1,240 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D3400
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Nikon D500
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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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 | 24.1 bits | |
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 | 14 EVs | |
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 | 1324 |
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Scores
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D500
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Nikon D3400 vs D500 Alternatives
The Nikon Z500 is the better of the two cameras. It is a sports and wildlife specialist because of its low-light performance.
However, if you are looking for a cheap and cheerful Nikon DSLR as a beginner camera, the D3400 is not a bad choice at all. The Nikon D3400 is a nice entry-level all-rounder.
If you’re still not sure which camera to go for, here’s some more popular comparisons to inspire you:
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User Scores
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D500
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B&H photo video |
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