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Nikon D3500 vs. Nikon D3400

    Nikon D3500 vs D3400

    Nikon D3500 vs. Nikon D3400: The Ultimate Comparison

    In this article, we compare the Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D3400 by highlighting their similarities and differences so you can decide which camera is the best fit for you.

    With companies constantly coming out with new models and updated gear, it can be hard to determine which camera will work best for your needs. Luckily, we did the work for you and broke down the comparisons between the Nikon D3500 vs. Nikon D3400.

    Take a look at the side-by-side details of each camera, and read through the in-depth analysis to see which is a better fit for you!

    Key Details at a Glance

    Here are the side-by-side key specs of the Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D3400:

    Nikon D3500 Nikon D3400
    Price New: $399.95, Used: ~$342 New: $499.95, Used: ~$313
    Release Date 8/29/2018 8/17/2016
    Sensor 24MP APS-C CMOS 24MP APS-C CMOS
    Viewfinder OVF OVF
    Articulating LCD Screen No No
    LCD Screen Size 3 3
    Viewfinder Resolution 921k 921k
    Lens Type Nikon F Mount Nikon F Mount
    Continuous Shooting Speed 5.0 fps 5.0 fps
    Video Resolution 1920×1080 1920×1080
    Weather sealed No No
    Image Stabilization No No
    Battery Life 1550 1200
    Time-Lapse Recording No No
    Touchscreen No No
    Selfie Friendly LCD No No
    Wireless Connection No No
    Bluetooth Connection Yes Yes
    Microphone Port No No
    AE Bracketing No No
    Smartphone Remote Yes Yes
    Built-in Flash Yes Yes
    External Flash Yes Yes
    Lenses Available 305 305
    Dimensions 124x97x70mm 124x98x76mm
    Weight 365g 395g
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    In-Depth Comparison:

    At a glance, the key specs can give you an idea of which camera will fit your needs better, but here we provide a deeper analysis to highlight the main differences between each camera and understand how these features function within each camera.

    Design

    Known for being great beginner DSLR camera models, both of these cameras feature the classic DSLR camera design, with a chunkier feel than mirrorless cameras and easy to access buttons and functions. Although these cameras follow the basic DSLR blueprint, there are a few design differences between the two to keep in mind.

    The Nikon D3400 is older by two years, and weighs 395g (without a battery and memory card), while the Nikon D3500 utilizes a sleeker design, weighing only 365g (without a battery and memory card).

    nikon d3500 vs d3400 dimensions

    The dimensions vary slightly between the cameras as well, with the Nikon D3400 being 124x98x76mm and the Nikon D3500 being 124x97x70mm. The mere millimeters in size difference may not make much of a difference between the cameras, but it attests to how the Nikon D3500 is produced to compete with the modern DSLR market by using a sleeker design.

    The Nikon D3500 utilizes a more substantial grip, which will assist with handling and using heavier lenses. This difference is important to keep in mind because neither of the cameras offer image stabilization, so small improvements to grip design can make a difference in image quality.

    Overall, the design differences are small, but the Nikon D3500 focuses on utilizing a smaller design that may contribute to steadier images due to a better grip design.

    Image Quality

    The Nikon D3500 and D3400 are often seen as starter DSLR cameras due to their cheaper

    price point and features, but they’re a great choice for the solid image quality and performance.

    Image example from the Nikon D3500:

    Nikon D3500 Image Sample

    Image via DPReview

    Both cameras feature an ISO range of 100-25600, and they are known for having great noise performance. While they both utilize the same sensor, it is important to note the Nikon D3500 uses a newer technology in its sensor. Since it’s a revamped model, the newer sensor technology may contribute to subtle differences in performance.

    Image Example from the Nikon D3400:

    Nikon D3400 Image Sample

    Image via Have Camera Will Travel

    Both models do not use an anti-aliasing filter, which allows for sharper images and performance. Another important aspect of both cameras is the lack of image stabilization. Neither camera provides image stabilization, so it’s good to keep in mind when trying to use heavy or long lenses.

    Battery Life

    One of the defining differences between the Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D3400 is the battery life. Each camera has good battery life for the price point, but the Nikon D3500 pulls ahead due to its revamped technology.

    The Nikon D3500 has a battery life of 1,550 shots, while the older Nikon D3400 has a battery life of 1,200 shots. With a 300 shot difference in functionality, the Nikon D3500 is the better choice if battery life is an important feature for you.

    Built-In Flash

    Nikon D3500 Flash

    Image via Focus Camera

    Both the Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D3400 have external flash mounts, which are typically what is used by photographers, but these models also have built-in flash functions.

    The main difference between these built-in flash features is the range, as the Nikon D3500 has a 7m range, while the Nikon D3400 has a range of 12m.

    If you plan on utilizing the built-in flash function frequently, the Nikon D3400 may be a better option for you.

    Video

    Both of these cameras have 1920×1080 video resolution, which results in decent video quality. However, neither of these models have a microphone port, so audio quality comes from the built-in microphone, which means the audio may not be great.

    The lack of image stabilization may also have effects on the video quality, but both models would encounter this issue.

    Miscellaneous

    Since the Nikon D3500 is a newer model, it does have a few advantages compared to the Nikon D3400 in terms of technology compatibility. The Nikon D3500 comes with a built-in guide mode making it user-friendly for beginner photographers.

    The Nikon D3400 and the Nikon D3500 are both Bluetooth compatible, but the Nikon D3500 allows the Bluetooth to work as a remote through the SnapBridge app.

    Final Thoughts

    Both the Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D3400 are great beginner cameras for those wanting to get started in DSLR photography, as well as great options for budget-friendly DSLR cameras. The design of the Nikon D3500 has been revamped, so it’s sleeker and lighter in weight than the Nikon D3400.

    The Nikon D3500 and the Nikon D3400 produce similar quality images, however the sensor in the Nikon D3500 utilizes newer technology, which can lead to better quality. The Nikon D3500 also has a higher battery life, which is one of the main differences between the two models, and can be seen as a reason to opt for the Nikon D3500.

    Overall, both cameras are a great value, and your choice may come down to whichever you can find with the best price deal. The Nikon D3500 is a newer model with some technology updates, but the Nikon D3400 works well for a beginning DSLR as well.

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    10 Tips to SELL Your Used Camera Gear FAST

    Have some used camera gear you'd like to get rid of? If so, check out this free PDF with 10 useful tips for selling your gear quickly!
    DOWNLOAD
    Selling

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    FEATURED DOWNLOAD

    10 Tips to SELL Your Used Camera Gear FAST

    Have some used camera gear you'd like to get rid of? If so, check out this free PDF with 10 useful tips for selling your gear quickly!
    DOWNLOAD
    Selling