As a longtime Nikon shooter and photography enthusiast, questions about the D3500 and D5600 crop up often. These popular entry-level DSLRs pack impressive specs into compact bodies at wallet-friendly prices.
On paper, they share quite a bit in common – from their 24MP APS-C sensors right down to physical dimensions. But how do they stack up in real-world use? I‘ve broken things down in detail to help you decide which is the best fit.
An Overview of Nikon
First, a quick refresher. Nikon Corporation has been a leading name in optics and imaging for over a century. What started out as a microscope manufacturer in 1917 has evolved into one of the global giants in cameras and lenses.
While they have a huge array of products nowadays, Nikon earned its reputation with the superb quality and reliability of its DSLRs. The D3500 and D5600 sit towards the entry end of Nikon’s DSLR lineup but deliver impressive performance for their class.
Nikon D3500 vs D5600: Key Specs
| Camera | Nikon D3500 | Nikon D5600 |
| Year Announced | 2018 | 2016 |
| Sensor Resolution | 24 MP | 24 MP |
| Sensor Size | APS-C CMOS (23.5 x 15.6mm) | APS-C CMOS (23.5 x 15.6mm) |
| Image Size | 6000 x 4000 pixels | 6000 x 4000 pixels |
| Screen | 3" fixed 921,000 dots | 3.2” articulating 1,037,000 dots touchscreen |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | Up to 5 fps | Up to 5 fps |
| Video Resolution | Full HD 1080p | Full HD 1080p |
| ISO Range | 100–25,600 | 100–25,600 |
| Viewfinder Coverage and Magnification | 95% coverage, 0.85x magnification | 95% coverage, 0.82x magnification |
| Built-in Flash | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | 124 x 97 x 69.5mm | 124 x 97 x 70mm |
| Weight (body only) | 365g | 465g |
As you can see, there’s quite a bit these two models share on paper. But let’s go beyond the specs to see how they compare in real-world use.
Design & Handling Comparison
The D3500 and D5600 share a compact, lightweight body that’s very comfortable for travel and all-day carrying. Buttons, dials and menus will be immediately familiar to those stepping up from entry-level Nikon DSLRs. But the D5600 does gain a few handling advantages.
Body Construction
While dimensions are nearly identical, the D5600 uses more metal alloy components and weighs 100g more. The polycarbonate D3500 is plenty durable but the D5600 feels more solid with a bit nicer finish. If your camera takes a bit of a beating, the D5600 may withstand more years of service.
Grips & Buttons
Both models are generally comfortable to hold one-handed, with a decent grip size. But the textured coating on the D5600 provides more positive traction. Buttons have good tactile feedback, while the D5600 gains a top plate status display.
Articulating Touchscreen
A rear screen adds tremendous convenience for composing shots from awkward positions. The D3500’s screen is fixed, while the D5600 offers full articulation. Being able to tilt and rotate it to frame subjects from high or low angles adds lots of flexibility – especially useful for shooting video. It also gains touch functionality to quickly set focus points and navigate menus.
Autofocus Performance
Both DSLRs utilize Nikon’s speedy EXPEED image processor along with an 11-point autofocus system. But the D5600 pulls ahead with more cross-type sensors for adding precision:
Nikon D3500: 11 AF points (1 cross-type)
Nikon D5600: 39 AF points (9 cross-type)
While the D3500 focuses quickly for its class, the D5600 locks on with a bit more speed and consistency – helpful when shooting fast action. Its more advanced AF module and largerfinder view provide an advantage here.
Image Quality Comparison
The 24MP APS-C sensors on these models deliver outstanding image quality for the price point. Combined with a good Nikon lens, they can capture amazing detail and sharpness.
But by removing the optical low-pass filter, the D5600 gains a slight boost in resolving fine details. This comes at the risk of more moire patterns when photographing finely-patterned subjects. But generally speaking, photos have a little more crispness straight from the camera.
Nikon D3500 Sample Image
Nikon D5600 Sample Image
To my eye, the D5600 retains a very slight sharpness advantage for landscape and travel photos. But unless you’re heavily cropping images, it’s quite minor and the D3500 remains capable of capturing stunning photos.
Connectivity & Ports
The D3500 features built-in Bluetooth LE connectivity to pair with smart devices through the SnapBridge app. This permits automatic low-res image transfers along with remote shooting. But there’s no WiFi which prevents quick transfer of full-resolution photos.
The D5600 adds WiFi with NFC pairing to easily transmit images over a wireless network. With a larger buffer size, it can send full 24MP JPEG files swiftly for online sharing.
Both cameras have external mic ports for upgrading audio recording, but only the D5600 has a headphone jack for audio monitoring. They include a Micro HDMI Type D and USB 2.0 Micro ports otherwise.
Battery Performance
Thanks to a new EN-EL14a battery, the D3500 delivers longer runtime over previous Nikon entry models:
Nikon D3500 battery life: Up to 1550 shots per charge
Nikon D5600 battery life: 820 shots per charge
For a family trip or backpacking through Europe for a week, the D3500 provides tremendous mileage on a single battery. Pack a spare EN-EL14a for the D5600, and it won’t be an issue. But the D3500 is the runaway winner here.
Which Camera Should You Buy?
For family photos, travel, events, and crisp 1080p video, you can’t go wrong with either model. The D3500 offers incredible value, with battery efficiency that shames other entry DSLRs. But if focusing performance, touchscreen convenience and speedy WiFi transfer have priority, the D5600 brings noticeable advantages.
The Nikon D3500 is ideal for:
- Family photographers on a budget
- Travel photography with long battery life
- Those who don‘t need WiFi image transfer
The Nikon D5600 is best for:
- Enthusiasts who need faster AF performance
- Vloggers/content creators using the articulating screen
- Quick wireless sharing of images on location
Both remain easy recommendations over similarly priced mirrorless cameras, with access to decades of legendary Nikon F-mount lenses. And fantastic performance that far exceeds expectations for the cost.
Hopefully this detailed guide helps you decide which model fits your needs best. Feel free to reach out with any additional questions!
