What To Know
- The D500 is a high-end camera designed for professional and advanced photographers, while the D3500 is an entry-level camera suitable for beginners and hobbyists.
- The D3500, on the other hand, has a more modest burst shooting speed of 5 FPS for up to 15 JPEGs or 13 RAW files.
- The D3500, on the other hand, is an excellent option for beginners and hobbyists who want a capable and affordable camera for everyday photography.
The Nikon D500 and D3500 are two popular digital SLR cameras that cater to different levels of photography enthusiasts. The D500 is a high-end camera designed for professional and advanced photographers, while the D3500 is an entry-level camera suitable for beginners and hobbyists. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of both cameras to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon D500 boasts a 20.9-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with a native ISO range of 100-51,200. This sensor offers excellent image quality with sharp details, vibrant colors, and minimal noise, even at high ISO settings. The D3500, on the other hand, has a lower-resolution 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with a native ISO range of 100-25,600. While it can produce good images in most situations, it may struggle with noise in low-light conditions.
Autofocus System
One of the key advantages of the D500 is its advanced autofocus system. It features a 153-point autofocus system with 99 cross-type sensors, providing exceptional accuracy and speed in tracking moving subjects. This makes it an excellent choice for capturing fast-paced action, wildlife photography, and sports. The D3500, in contrast, has an 11-point autofocus system with only 1 cross-type sensor. While it is sufficient for basic photography, it may not be as reliable in challenging lighting conditions or when shooting fast-moving subjects.
Burst Shooting Speed
For photographers who need to capture rapid sequences of images, the burst shooting speed is crucial. The D500 excels in this area, offering a blazing-fast burst shooting speed of up to 10 frames per second (FPS) for up to 200 JPEGs or 70 RAW files. This makes it ideal for capturing sports, wildlife, and other fast-paced events. The D3500, on the other hand, has a more modest burst shooting speed of 5 FPS for up to 15 JPEGs or 13 RAW files.
Build and Durability
The Nikon D500 is built like a tank, featuring a robust magnesium alloy body that is weather-sealed against dust and moisture. It can withstand harsh outdoor conditions and is suitable for photographers who need a reliable camera for outdoor adventures or professional assignments. The D3500, on the other hand, has a more compact and lightweight plastic body that is not weather-sealed. While it is still durable enough for most casual users, it may not be the best choice for photographers who frequently shoot in challenging environments.
Video Capabilities
Both the D500 and D3500 offer video recording capabilities, but the D500 is more suited for serious videographers. It can record 4K UHD video at 24, 25, or 30 FPS, and Full HD 1080p video at up to 60 FPS. The D3500, on the other hand, is limited to Full HD 1080p video recording at up to 60 FPS. Additionally, the D500 features a built-in microphone jack and a headphone jack for external audio monitoring.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The Nikon D500 offers extensive connectivity options, including built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS. This allows for easy sharing of images and remote camera control. The D3500, however, only has built-in Wi-Fi, limiting its connectivity options. In terms of battery life, the D500 has a larger EN-EL15 battery that provides up to 2,260 shots per charge. The D3500, on the other hand, uses a smaller EN-EL14a battery that provides up to 1,550 shots per charge.
Key Points: Which Camera is Right for You?
The Nikon D500 and D3500 are both excellent cameras, but they are designed for different levels of photographers. The D500 is the clear choice for professional and advanced photographers who need a high-performance camera with exceptional autofocus, burst shooting speed, and durability. The D3500, on the other hand, is an excellent option for beginners and hobbyists who want a capable and affordable camera for everyday photography. Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your specific needs and budget.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: The D500 has a slightly higher-resolution sensor and a wider ISO range, resulting in better image quality, especially in low-light conditions.
Q: Which camera is better for action photography?
A: The D500 has a significantly faster burst shooting speed and a more advanced autofocus system, making it better suited for capturing fast-paced action.
Q: Which camera is more durable?
A: The D500 has a robust magnesium alloy body that is weather-sealed, while the D3500 has a more compact and lightweight plastic body that is not weather-sealed.
Q: Which camera has better video capabilities?
A: The D500 offers 4K UHD video recording and a built-in microphone jack, while the D3500 is limited to Full HD 1080p video recording.
Q: Which camera has better connectivity options?
A: The D500 has built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS, while the D3500 only has built-in Wi-Fi.
