Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
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✓ WINNER
 61
SCORE
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 44
SCORE
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|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Model | D3500 | D90 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2018 | 2008 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
30/08/2018 | 27/08/2008 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 124 x 97 x 70 mm | 132 x 103 x 77 mm |
| Camera weight | 615 g | 703 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
24 MP050 | 12.3 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
6000 x 4000 | 4288 x 2848 |
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 | 15.8 x 23.6 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-C | APS-C |
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 fps045 | 4.5 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 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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 20030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 32003003280000 |
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. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 64003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
400080032000 | 400080032000 |
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. |
110300 | 110300 |
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/A | N/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 HD | Standard 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. |
1920×1080 | 1280 x 720 |
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 fps | 24 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. |
MOV | MOV |
| 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 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" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
9216001150001500000 | 9200001150001500000 |
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 / SDXC | SD / SDHC |
| 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. |
1550 shots1505000 | 850 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Nikon D3500 emerges as the winner with a score of 61/100, outshining the Nikon D90, which scored 44/100. Both cameras are DSLR types and share similarities in their specifications. The D3500, released in 2018, has an advantage in its compact size, measuring 124 x 97 x 70mm and weighing 615g. This makes it more portable and user-friendly than the D90, which was released in 2008 and measures 132 x 103 x 77mm, weighing 703g.
Despite the D90 being older, it does have a higher launch price of $1235 compared to the D3500’s $499.95. However, the D3500’s lower price and more recent release make it a better option for those seeking an affordable and up-to-date DSLR camera. The D90 may still be a viable choice for some, but the D3500 offers more value for the money and improved specifications.
The Nikon D3500 outperforms the Nikon D90 in optics with a score of 65/100 compared to the D90’s 46/100. Both cameras share some specifications, including the CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, Nikon F lens mount, and absence of image stabilization.
The D3500 has a higher resolution with 24 megapixels compared to the D90’s 12.3 megapixels, resulting in sharper and more detailed images. The D3500 also benefits from a faster shooting speed of 5 frames per second, allowing for better capture of fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the D3500 is equipped with an Expeed 4 processor, which provides faster processing and better image quality compared to the Expeed processor in the D90. The D3500’s sensor has a higher DXOMARK score of 87, indicating better overall image quality and performance.
On the other hand, the D90 has a slightly faster shooting speed of 4.5 frames per second, which is still adequate for capturing action shots. However, its lower resolution and older processor make it less suited for producing high-quality images compared to the D3500.
Given the above comparisons, the Nikon D3500 is the superior camera in terms of optics, with higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and a more advanced processor. The Nikon D90 may still be a suitable option for those who prioritize a slightly faster shooting speed, but its overall optical performance is not on par with the D3500.
When comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D90, it is important to note that the Nikon D90 does not have any video functionality. This means that the Nikon D90 is not a suitable choice for those looking to capture video footage with their camera. On the other hand, the Nikon D3500 does offer video capabilities, which we will now discuss.
The Nikon D3500 has a video score of 56 out of 100, which is a moderate score for a camera in its class. The camera is capable of recording Full HD video with a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. This resolution allows for clear and detailed footage that is suitable for most casual video needs. In terms of frame rate, the Nikon D3500 can capture video at a maximum of 60 frames per second, providing smooth motion and allowing for some flexibility in post-processing, such as slow-motion effects.
However, the Nikon D3500 does not have built-in time-lapse functionality. This means that creating time-lapse videos will require additional software or accessories, which may be an inconvenience for some users.
Taking into account the video capabilities of both cameras, it is clear that the Nikon D3500 is the better choice for those interested in capturing video footage. While the Nikon D90 does not offer any video functionality, the Nikon D3500 provides Full HD video recording with a respectable frame rate. Although it lacks built-in time-lapse functionality, the Nikon D3500 remains a solid option for users seeking a camera with video capabilities.
The Nikon D3500 outperforms the Nikon D90 with a feature score of 54/100 compared to the D90’s 41/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, no touchscreen, no flip screen, no GPS, and no WIFI.
The D3500 has a higher screen resolution of 921,600 dots, which provides a clearer and sharper display for image review and menu navigation. Additionally, the D3500 has a key advantage over the D90: Bluetooth connectivity. This feature enables the D3500 to connect wirelessly with compatible devices, such as smartphones and tablets, for quick and easy image sharing and remote camera control.
On the other hand, the D90 does not have any significant advantages over the D3500 in terms of features. Both cameras lack some popular modern features, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and WIFI. In this comparison, the D90 does not outshine the D3500 in any notable way.
Considering the features of both cameras, the Nikon D3500 is the clear winner due to its higher screen resolution and Bluetooth connectivity. These advantages contribute to a more user-friendly experience and increased functionality. The Nikon D90, despite being an older model, still shares some common specifications with the D3500. However, it falls short in comparison due to its lower feature score and lack of standout features. The Nikon D3500 stands out as the superior choice for photographers seeking a camera with better features and functionality.
The Nikon D3500 triumphs over the Nikon D90 in storage and battery with a score of 48/100, compared to the D90’s 37/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as having one memory card slot and no USB charging. They also accept SD and SDHC memory cards.
The D3500 outperforms the D90 in terms of battery life and memory card compatibility. With a battery life of 1550 shots, the D3500 lasts significantly longer than the D90, which offers 850 shots. Moreover, the D3500 supports SDXC cards, providing users with additional storage options.
Despite the lower score, the Nikon D90 still holds its ground with the same battery type, EN-EL3e, as the D3500. However, considering the advantages of the D3500 in battery life and memory card compatibility, it is the superior choice for storage and battery performance.
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 D90:
