Nikon D3400 vs D90 Comparison
Nikon D3400
Nikon D90
Price | |||
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Brand | Nikon | Nikon | |
Model | D3400 | D90 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2008 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 17, 2016 | August 27, 2008 | |
Camera Type | |||
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D3400 outperforms the Nikon D90 with a score of 61/100 compared to 44/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, with the D3400 released in 2016 and the D90 in 2008. They share similar dimensions, but the D3400 is lighter at 445g compared to the D90’s 703g.
The D3400’s higher score highlights its superior performance, offering better value at a launch price of $650 compared to the D90’s $1235. The D90 has no significant advantages over the D3400, despite its higher initial cost.
The Nikon D3400 is the clear winner, providing better performance and value in a lighter package.
Nikon D3400 vs D90 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D3400 outperforms the Nikon D90 in optics, scoring 65 out of 100 compared to the D90’s 46. Both cameras share some specifications, including the CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, Nikon F DX lens mount, and lack of image stabilization. However, the D3400 surpasses the D90 in several areas, making it the superior choice for optics.
The D3400 boasts a higher megapixel count at 24.2, compared to the D90’s 12.3, which results in sharper and more detailed images. Its shooting speed is also slightly faster at 5 frames per second, compared to the D90’s 4.5, allowing for better capture of fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the D3400’s Expeed 4 processor outperforms the D90’s Expeed processor, resulting in faster image processing and improved overall performance.
The D3400’s sensor also achieves a higher DXOMARK score of 86, compared to the D90’s 73, which indicates better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range. This gives the D3400 an edge in capturing images with greater detail in both highlights and shadows.
The Nikon D90 does not have any significant advantages over the D3400 in terms of optics. The only area where the D90 could potentially be considered better is its slightly lower price point, but this does not compensate for the inferior performance in optics.
The Nikon D3400’s higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, superior processor, and better sensor performance make it the clear winner in terms of optics compared to the Nikon D90. While the D90 may be more affordable, the D3400 offers significantly better image quality and overall performance, making it the better choice for photographers who prioritize optics.
Optics
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D90
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 12.3 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 | 4288 x 2848 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 | 15.8 x 23.6 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 | 4.5 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 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 | |
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 | 200 | |
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 | 3,200 | |
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 | 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 | 6400 | |
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 (pentaprism) |
Nikon D3400 vs D90 Video Performance
When comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon D3400 and the Nikon D90, it is important to note that the Nikon D90 does not have any video functionality. Therefore, this comparison will focus solely on the video capabilities of the Nikon D3400.
The Nikon D3400 has a video score of 56 out of 100. The camera offers Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080. This allows users to capture high-quality footage in various settings. The camera also supports a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, providing smooth and clear motion in recorded videos. However, the Nikon D3400 does not have built-in time-lapse functionality, which may be a drawback for some users.
Considering the video capabilities of the Nikon D3400, it is clear that this camera provides a solid option for those who require video recording in their photography endeavors. On the other hand, the Nikon D90 lacks video functionality entirely, making it unsuitable for users who need this feature. The choice between these two cameras will ultimately depend on the specific video requirements of the user.
Video
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D90
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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. | N/A | ||
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 | N/A | |
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 | N/A | |
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 | N/A |
Nikon D3400 vs D90 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D3400 outperforms the Nikon D90 with a feature score of 54/100 compared to the D90’s 41/100. The two cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, absence of touchscreen and flip screen, and lack of GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity. However, the D3400 has a slight advantage in screen resolution with 921,000 dots, compared to the D90’s 920,000 dots.
The primary advantage of the Nikon D3400 is its Bluetooth connectivity, which the D90 lacks. This feature allows for seamless image transfer between the camera and smartphones or other compatible devices, making it convenient for users to share and store their photos.
The Nikon D90 has no notable advantages over the D3400 in terms of features, as it shares most of its specifications with the D3400 and lacks Bluetooth connectivity. The lower feature score of the D90 reflects this lack of additional benefits.
In comparing the Nikon D3400 and Nikon D90, the D3400 is the superior camera in terms of features, primarily due to its Bluetooth connectivity. The D90, while sharing many specifications with the D3400, does not offer any additional benefits or advantages. Users seeking a camera with more advanced and convenient features should opt for the Nikon D3400.
Features
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D90
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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 | |||
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 920,000 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 D90 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D3400 outperforms the Nikon D90 in the storage and battery category with a score of 45/100 compared to the D90’s 37/100. Both cameras possess one memory card slot and do not support USB charging. They also share compatibility with SD and SDHC memory cards, but the D3400 has the added advantage of accepting SDXC cards, providing more storage options.
The D3400 holds a significant advantage in battery life, offering 1200 shots per charge using the EN-EL14a battery, while the D90 provides 850 shots with its EN-EL3e battery. This difference allows the D3400 user to capture more images before needing a battery replacement.
Though the D90 falls short in this comparison, it still offers a decent battery life and storage capacity. However, the D3400’s superior battery life and additional memory card compatibility make it the better choice in terms of storage and battery performance.
Storage and Battery
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D90
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots | |||
Battery Type | EN-EL14a | EN-EL3e | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 1,200 shots | 850 shots | |
USB Charging |
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D3400
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Nikon D90
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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 | 22.7 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 | 12.5 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 | 977 |
Scores
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D90
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Nikon D3400 vs D90 – Our Verdict
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 D90:
User Scores
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Nikon D3400
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Nikon D90
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B&H photo video |
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