CameraReview

Nikon D3500 vs Nikon D600 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Nikon D3500
Nikon
Nikon D3500
DSLR · 24 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
61
SCORE
$392.18
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✓ WINNER
Nikon D600
Nikon
Nikon D600
DSLR · 24.3 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
66
SCORE
$543
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General
Brand NikonNikon
Model D3500D600
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20182012
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
30/08/201813/09/2012
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 124 x 97 x 70 mm141 x 113 x 82 mm
Camera weight 615 g850 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24 MP05024.3 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006016 x 4016
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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 23.524 x 35.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
5 fps0455.5 fps045
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 FNikon F FX
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed 4Expeed 3
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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
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.
25600300328000064003003280000
Min 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.
100302005030200
Max 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.
256003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max 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.
400080032000400080032000
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.
110300390300
In-body stabilisation
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)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HDFull HD
Max video format
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.
1920×10801920 x 1080
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 fps30 fps
Timelapse 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.
MOVMOV
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
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 LCDLCD
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 dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
92160011500015000009210001150001500000
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
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL14aEN-EL15
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1550 shots1505000900 shots1505000
USB charging

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.

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.

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.

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.

Nikon D3500 vs D600 – Our Verdict

Nikon D3500 vs D600 Comparison image.

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 D600: