Nikon D3500 vs D5000 Comparison
Nikon D3500
Nikon D5000
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Brand | Nikon | Nikon | |
Model | D3500 | D5000 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2018 | 2009 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 30, 2018 | April 14, 2009 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D3500 emerges as the winner with a score of 61/100, compared to the Nikon D5000‘s score of 41/100. Both cameras share similarities as DSLR models, released in 2018 and 2009 respectively, with launch prices of $499.95 and $730.
The Nikon D3500 surpasses the D5000 in terms of size and weight, measuring 124 x 97 x 70mm and weighing 615g (1.36lbs), making it more compact and portable. On the other hand, the Nikon D5000 is slightly larger at 127 x 104 x 80mm and lighter, weighing 590g (1.30lbs). Despite the D5000’s lighter weight, the D3500’s overall better performance and compactness give it an edge in this comparison.
Considering these factors, the Nikon D3500 proves to be a more efficient and convenient choice for photographers, while the Nikon D5000 may still hold some appeal due to its lighter weight.
Nikon D3500 vs D5000 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D3500 triumphs over the Nikon D5000 in optics with a score of 65/100, compared to the D5000’s 45/100. Both cameras share common specifications such as a CMOS sensor, APS-C sensor size, Nikon F lens mount, and a lack of image stabilization.
The Nikon D3500 has a significant advantage in megapixels, boasting 24 compared to the D5000’s 12.3. This difference allows for larger and more detailed images to be captured. Additionally, the D3500 has a faster shooting speed of 5, while the D5000 only offers 4. This means the D3500 can capture more images in a shorter amount of time, which is especially useful for action shots or fast-paced events. The D3500 also benefits from a superior processor, the Expeed 4, which contributes to faster image processing and better overall performance. Lastly, the D3500 has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 87, indicating better image quality compared to the D5000’s score of 72.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5000 has a slight advantage in its lens mount, using the Nikon F DX mount, which offers a wider range of lens options specifically designed for crop sensor cameras like the D5000. This can provide more flexibility and versatility for photographers in choosing lenses for their needs.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D3500 outshines the Nikon D5000 in terms of optics, image quality, and performance. The higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, and superior processor make it a better choice for photographers seeking improved image quality and speed. However, the D5000’s lens mount advantage may appeal to those who prioritize lens flexibility and versatility.
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Optics
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Nikon D3500
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Nikon D5000
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 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. |  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 | 4 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 | 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. |  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 | 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 (pentamirror) |
Nikon D3500 vs D5000 Video Performance
The Nikon D3500 outperforms the Nikon D5000 in video capabilities, scoring 56/100 compared to the D5000’s 49/100. Both cameras share common video specifications, such as having a built-in microphone and allowing manual exposure control. However, the D3500 surpasses the D5000 in key areas, making it the better choice for video recording.
One significant advantage the D3500 holds over the D5000 is its max video resolution. The D3500 can shoot Full HD video at 1920×1080, whereas the D5000 is limited to Standard HD at 1280×720. This difference results in the D3500 producing higher quality, more detailed footage. Furthermore, the D3500 offers a max video frame rate of 60fps, double the D5000’s 24fps. This allows for smoother motion capture and better slow-motion capabilities in the D3500.
On the other hand, the D5000 does hold one advantage in its video capabilities: built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create time-lapse videos without additional software or equipment. However, this single advantage does not outweigh the superior resolution and frame rate offered by the D3500.
Taking all factors into account, the Nikon D3500 is the clear winner in video capabilities. With its higher max video resolution and frame rate, it provides better overall video quality and performance. While the D5000 does offer built-in time-lapse functionality, this feature alone is not enough to make up for its shortcomings in other areas. Therefore, those prioritizing video capabilities should opt for the Nikon D3500.
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Video
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Nikon D3500
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Nikon D5000
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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 |  Standard 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. | 1920×1080 px | 1280 x 720 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 | 24 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 | Motion JPEG |
Nikon D3500 vs D5000 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D3500 outperforms the Nikon D5000 in features with a score of 54/100 compared to 34/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the lack of a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and WIFI. However, the D3500 surpasses the D5000 in other aspects, contributing to its higher feature score.
The D3500 boasts a larger screen size of 3 inches, compared to the D5000’s 2.7 inches. Furthermore, the D3500’s screen resolution is significantly higher at 921,600 dots, while the D5000 only has 230,000 dots. This means that the D3500 provides a clearer and more detailed display for users. Additionally, the D3500 has Bluetooth connectivity, which the D5000 lacks. This allows for easier file sharing and remote control of the camera.
On the other hand, the D5000 does not have any significant advantages over the D3500 in terms of features. Both cameras have their limitations, but the D3500’s improved screen and Bluetooth capability give it the edge.
Considering these factors, the Nikon D3500 is a better choice for photographers who value a larger, higher-resolution screen and Bluetooth connectivity. While the Nikon D5000 does not offer any notable advantages, it may still be suitable for those who do not prioritize these specific features. Ultimately, the Nikon D3500’s superior feature score reflects its enhanced capabilities and user experience.
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Features
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Nikon D3500
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Nikon D5000
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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 | TFT 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" |  2.7" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,600 dots | 230,000 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 D3500 vs D5000 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D3500 outperforms the Nikon D5000 in storage and battery, scoring 48 out of 100 compared to the D5000’s 27. Both cameras share similarities in storage, as they both have one memory card slot and accept SD and SDHC memory cards. However, the D3500 also supports the SDXC format, giving it an advantage in storage capacity.
The D3500’s battery life is significantly better, offering 1550 shots per charge, while the D5000 only provides 510 shots. Additionally, both cameras use different battery types, with the D3500 using the EN-EL14a and the D5000 using the EN-EL9a. Neither camera has USB charging capabilities.
Although the D5000 scores lower in storage and battery, it does not have any advantages in this area compared to the D3500. The Nikon D3500 is the clear winner in terms of storage and battery performance, offering greater storage capacity and longer battery life for users who require extended shooting sessions or increased storage options.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon D3500
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Nikon D5000
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL14a | EN-EL9a | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 1,550 shots | 510 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D3500
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Nikon D5000
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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.' | N/A | 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.' | N/A | 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' | N/A | 868 |
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Scores
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Nikon D3500
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Nikon D5000
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Nikon D3500 vs D5000 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D3500 or the Nikon D5000:
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User Scores
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Nikon D3500
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Nikon D5000
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B&H photo video |
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