Nikon D5500 vs D5600 Comparison
Nikon D5500
Nikon D5600
Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Nikon | Nikon | |
Model | D5500 | D5600 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2015 | 2016 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 06, 2015 | November 10, 2016 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D5600 emerges as the winner with a score of 66/100, compared to the Nikon D5500‘s score of 61/100. Both cameras are DSLR types, announced in 2015 and 2016 respectively, and share the same dimensions of 124 x 97 x 70mm. The D5600 has an edge over the D5500 in terms of price, as it was launched at $700, while the D5500 was introduced at $900.
The D5500 is lighter, weighing 420g, compared to the D5600’s 465g. This makes the D5500 more convenient for those who prefer a lighter camera. However, the D5600’s higher score reflects its overall better performance and features, making it a more attractive option for photographers. The lower launch price of the D5600 also adds to its appeal.
Nikon D5500 vs D5600 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D5500 and Nikon D5600 both receive a score of 65/100 for their optics, indicating that there is no clear winner between the two cameras in this category. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, a shooting speed of 5 frames per second, an Expeed 4 processor, a DXOMARK sensor score of 84, an APS-C sensor size, a Nikon F DX lens mount, and no image stabilization.
Despite their identical scores, the Nikon D5600 has certain advantages over the D5500. The D5600 features SnapBridge technology, which allows for seamless image sharing and remote control through a smartphone or tablet. This feature is particularly useful for photographers who want to quickly share their images or control their camera remotely without the need for additional accessories.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5500 has a slightly lighter body, which can be beneficial for photographers who prioritize portability and ease of use. Additionally, the D5500 is often available at a lower price point than the D5600, making it a more attractive option for budget-conscious photographers.
In terms of optics, both the Nikon D5500 and D5600 offer similar capabilities and performance. The D5600 has the advantage of SnapBridge connectivity, while the D5500 is lighter and often more affordable. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the individual photographer’s priorities and preferences.
|
Optics
|
Nikon D5500
|
Nikon D5600
|
|
|
|
|
||
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 24.2 MP | |
|---|---|---|---|
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 | 6000 x 4000 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 | 15.6 x 23.5 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 | 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 4 | |
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 | 100 | |
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 | 25,600 | |
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 | 102400 | |
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. | 39 | 39 | |
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 D5500 vs D5600 Video Performance
The Nikon D5500 and Nikon D5600 both have a video score of 70/100, making them equal in terms of video capabilities. They share several common features, including Full HD max video resolution, 1920 x 1080 max video dimensions, and a max video frame rate of 60fps. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite having the same video score, the Nikon D5600 offers some advantages over the Nikon D5500. The D5600 features SnapBridge, which allows for seamless sharing of photos and videos to a smartphone or tablet. This feature makes it easier for users to share their work on social media or with friends and family. The D5600 also has a slightly longer battery life, allowing for more shooting time before needing to recharge.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5500 has a few benefits over the D5600. The D5500 is lighter and more compact than the D5600, making it a more portable option for those who value a lightweight camera for travel or extended shooting sessions. Additionally, the D5500 is often available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option for those looking to save money without sacrificing video quality.
Taking these factors into account, both the Nikon D5500 and Nikon D5600 are strong choices for video shooting. The D5600 might be preferred by those who value seamless sharing capabilities and a longer battery life, while the D5500 could be favored by those who prioritize a lighter, more portable camera and a lower price point. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the individual user’s preferences and needs.
|
Video
|
Nikon D5500
|
Nikon D5600
|
|
|
|
|
||
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 | Full 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 x 1080 px | 1920 x 1080 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 | 60 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 | MOV |
Nikon D5500 vs D5600 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D5600 wins the features comparison with a score of 72/100, while the Nikon D5500 scores 59/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3.2-inch screen size, 1037000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, and Wi-Fi capabilities. They also lack GPS functionality. However, the D5600 has additional features that give it an edge over the D5500.
The winning camera, Nikon D5600, outperforms the D5500 mainly due to its Bluetooth connectivity. This feature allows users to quickly and easily transfer images to their smartphones or other devices, enhancing the overall user experience. With Bluetooth, the D5600 is more convenient for sharing photos on social media or backing up images to cloud storage.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5500 has no significant advantages over the D5600 in terms of features. Both cameras are very similar, and the D5500 does not offer any unique features to make it a better choice. However, it is worth noting that the D5500 may be available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option for some users.
In comparing the Nikon D5500 and D5600, it is clear that the D5600 is the superior camera in terms of features. Its Bluetooth connectivity sets it apart from the D5500, making it a more convenient and user-friendly option. While the D5500 does not offer any significant advantages, it may be a more affordable choice for those on a tight budget. In the end, the Nikon D5600’s additional features make it the better camera for most users.
|
Features
|
Nikon D5500
|
Nikon D5600
|
|
|
|
|
||
Built-in 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 | 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" | 3.2" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,037,000 dots | 1,037,000 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 D5500 vs D5600 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D5600 outperforms the Nikon D5500 in storage and battery with a score of 43/100 compared to 35/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the D5600 is UHS-I compatible, providing faster data transfer speeds for improved performance.
The D5600 also boasts a longer battery life, offering 970 shots compared to the D5500’s 820 shots. This is due to the D5600’s use of the EN-EL14a battery, while the D5500 uses the EN-EL14 battery. Neither camera supports USB charging.
Although the D5500 falls short in this comparison, it still provides a decent battery life and storage capacity for casual photographers. However, the D5600’s advantages in battery life and UHS-I compatibility make it the better choice for those who prioritize longer shooting sessions and faster data transfer speeds.
|
Storage and Battery
|
Nikon D5500
|
Nikon D5600
|
|
|
|
|
||
Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | |
|---|---|---|---|
Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL14 | EN-EL14a | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 820 shots | 970 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
|
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D5500
|
Nikon D5600
|
|
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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.' | 24.1 bits | 24.1 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.' | 14 EVs | 14 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' | 1438 | 1306 |
|
Scores
|
Nikon D5500
|
Nikon D5600
|
Nikon D5500 vs D5600 Alternatives
Still not sure which camera is best for you? Check out these popular camera comparisons for inspiration:
|
User Scores
|
Nikon D5500
|
Nikon D5600
|
|
B&H photo video |
|---|