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Nikon D3500 vs D600 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Nikon D3500

nikon d3500
61%

Nikon D600

Nikon D600 camera image
Winner!
66%
Nikon D3500
vs
Nikon D600
Price
Brand
Nikon
Nikon
Model
D3500
D600
Released
2018
2012
Announcement Date
August 30, 2018
September 13, 2012
Camera Type
DSLR
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Nikon D600 emerges as the winner with a score of 66/100, while the Nikon D3500 trails behind at 61/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, with the D600 being released in 2012 at a launch price of $2100, and the D3500 being released in 2018 at a launch price of $499.95. They share similarities in camera size, with the D600 measuring 141 x 113 x 82mm and the D3500 measuring 124 x 97 x 70mm.

The D600 outperforms the D3500 in terms of specifications, resulting in a higher score. It boasts a larger and heavier build, weighing 850g compared to the D3500’s 615g. The heavier weight of the D600 can be an advantage for photographers who prefer a more substantial feel in their hands.

However, the D3500 has its merits, as it is more affordable and compact, making it a suitable choice for beginners or those on a tighter budget. Despite its lower score, the D3500 remains a reliable option for those seeking a DSLR camera.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D600 proves to be a superior choice for those who prioritize specifications and performance, while the Nikon D3500 is a better fit for those who value affordability and portability.

Nikon D3500 vs D600 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D600 emerges as the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 70/100, while the Nikon D3500 scores 65/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 24-megapixel CMOS sensor, Nikon F lens mount, and lack of image stabilization. However, the D600 outshines the D3500 in certain aspects, making it the superior choice in terms of optics.

The D600’s advantages include a faster shooting speed of 5.5 frames per second compared to the D3500’s 5 frames per second. This ensures capturing fast-moving subjects with greater ease. Additionally, the D600 boasts a full-frame sensor, which typically delivers better image quality, particularly in low light conditions. Furthermore, the D600’s sensor has a higher DXOMARK score of 94, compared to the D3500’s score of 87, indicating superior overall performance.

On the other hand, the D3500 has its strengths as well. Its Expeed 4 processor is a newer generation than the D600’s Expeed 3, which may contribute to better image processing. However, this advantage does not outweigh the D600’s superior sensor quality and shooting speed.

In terms of optics, the Nikon D600 proves to be the better choice due to its faster shooting speed, full-frame sensor, and higher DXOMARK score. Despite the D3500’s newer processor, it falls short when compared to the D600’s overall optical performance. Consequently, those seeking better image quality and capturing fast-moving subjects should opt for the Nikon D600.

Optics
Optics
65%
70%
Megapixels
24 MP
24.3 MP
Image Resolution
6000 x 4000 px
6016 x 4016 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
15.6 x 23.5 mm
24 x 35.9 mm
Sensor Format
APS-C
Full Frame
Frame Rate
5 fps
5.5 fps
Lens Mount
Nikon F
Nikon F FX
Image Processor
Expeed 4
Expeed 3
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600
6,400
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
100
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
25600
25600
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 4000 s
1/ 4000 s
Autofocus Points
11
39
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentamirror)
Optical (pentaprism)

Nikon D3500 vs D600 Video Performance

The Nikon D600 narrowly wins in the video category with a score of 57/100, compared to the Nikon D3500’s score of 56/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as Full HD video resolution and maximum video dimensions of 1920×1080.

The Nikon D600 has an advantage over the D3500 with its built-in time-lapse functionality, allowing users to create stunning time-lapse videos without requiring additional software or hardware. This feature is not available in the D3500, which may limit its appeal to videographers who value this capability.

On the other hand, the Nikon D3500 outperforms the D600 in terms of maximum video frame rate, offering 60fps compared to the D600’s 30fps. This higher frame rate enables smoother and more lifelike motion capture in video recordings, which is particularly useful for action scenes or sports footage. The D600’s lower frame rate may result in less fluid motion capture in certain scenarios.

Considering these factors, the Nikon D600 may be more suitable for users who prioritize time-lapse capabilities, while the Nikon D3500 is the better choice for those who value higher frame rates for smoother video capture. Despite their differences in video capabilities, both cameras offer Full HD resolution and share the same maximum video dimensions, ensuring that they can produce high-quality video content.

Video
Video
56%
57%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
Full HD
Max Video Dimensions
1920×1080 px
1920 x 1080 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
30 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MOV

Nikon D3500 vs D600 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D600 wins in the features comparison with a score of 57/100, while the Nikon D3500 scores 54/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a lack of touchscreen, flip screen, and GPS. However, there are differences that make one camera better than the other in certain aspects.

The Nikon D600 outperforms the D3500 with a slightly larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the D3500’s 3-inch screen. Although both cameras have a similar screen resolution, with the D600 at 921,000 dots and the D3500 at 921,600 dots, the D600’s larger screen provides a better viewing experience. Additionally, the D600 has Wi-Fi capability, which the D3500 lacks. This feature allows for easier sharing and transferring of photos, making the D600 more convenient for photographers who need to share their work quickly.

On the other hand, the Nikon D3500 has Bluetooth connectivity, which the D600 does not have. This offers the ability to connect the camera to a smartphone or other devices for remote control and sharing purposes. While this may not be as versatile as Wi-Fi, it still provides additional connectivity options for photographers.

Considering these points, the Nikon D600’s larger screen size and Wi-Fi capabilities make it more appealing for users who require better image viewing and sharing options. However, the Nikon D3500’s Bluetooth connectivity offers a practical alternative for those who prioritize device pairing and remote control.

Features
Features
54%
57%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
TFT LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3"
3.2"
Screen Resolution
921,600 dots
921,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Nikon D3500 vs D600 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D600 outperforms the Nikon D3500 in storage and battery with a score of 71/100, compared to the D3500’s 48/100. Both cameras share common specifications: they accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards and do not support USB charging.

The D600’s advantage lies in its dual memory card slots, allowing for more storage and backup options. However, the D3500 surpasses the D600 in battery life, offering 1550 shots per charge with its EN-EL14a battery, while the D600 provides 900 shots using the EN-EL15 battery.

Although the D600 has a higher score due to its storage capacity, the D3500’s superior battery life should not be overlooked. Ultimately, the decision between these cameras depends on the user’s priorities: storage flexibility with the D600 or longer battery life with the D3500.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
48%
71%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL14a
EN-EL15
Battery Life
1,550 shots
900 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
N/A
94%
Portrait (Color Depth)
N/A
25.1 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
N/A
14.2 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
N/A
2980
Scores

Nikon D3500 vs D600 – Our Verdict

Nikon D3500 vs D600 Comparison image.

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