ReviewFinder Digital Cameras

Nikon D3500

Expand

0 Verified Hands-On Reviews

To combat fake reviews we only accept video reviews from verified channels. Each review must show the product and the face of the reviewer.

Hmm. There are currently no verified reviews of Nikon D3500 in ReviewFinder database yet.
Are you a publisher or creator who reviews products?
Feature your reviews on ReviewFinder
ReviewFinder: authentic product reviews summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The Nikon D3500 is praised for its exceptional image quality, reliable autofocus, long battery life, and comfortable handling, making it a highly recommended camera for beginners and experienced photographers.

The Nikon D3500 is highly praised by experts for its exceptional image quality, with its 24. 2-megapixel resolution capturing detailed and vibrant images. The camera's dynamic range allows for capturing a wide range of highlight and shadow detail, and its low-light performance is improved compared to its predecessor.

While the image quality is impressive on its own, experts suggest investing in additional lenses to further enhance its potential.

The autofocus performance of the D3500 is also highly regarded, with the AF-P kit lens featuring a fast and quiet autofocus design. The autofocus speed and accuracy are considered good, although the system may struggle with tracking fast-moving subjects. Nonetheless, for slower or still subjects, the autofocus is quick, reliable, and effective.

In terms of video capabilities, the D3500 offers Full HD recording but does not support 4K. The camera provides various frame rates for video recording, and the video stabilization feature helps reduce camera shake. However, electronic image stabilization may reduce image detail, and the sound of the focus motor can be picked up by the microphone.

The D3500 excels in battery life, allowing for approximately 1,550 shots on a single charge. This makes it suitable for travel photography, outdoor shooting, and extended shooting sessions without frequent recharging.

The camera's ergonomics and handling have received positive feedback, with its lightweight and compact design making it highly portable and comfortable to use. The button placements and functionality are intuitive and beginner-friendly, allowing for easy access and adjustment of settings. The improved grip and control layout enhance the camera's handling and reduce hand fatigue.

Overall, the Nikon D3500 is highly recommended for beginners and experienced photographers alike. It offers excellent image quality, reliable autofocus performance, long battery life, and comfortable handling. It is suitable for a variety of use cases, including travel photography, outdoor shooting, and beginner-friendly shooting.

However, it may not be ideal for fast-paced action photography or professional videography requiring 4K recording.

Image Quality

The Nikon D3500 is highly praised for its exceptional image quality, with its 24.2-megapixel resolution, wide dynamic range, and impressive low-light performance, making it a top choice for photographers of all levels.

The Nikon D3500 is highly praised by experts for its exceptional image quality. With its 24. 2-megapixel resolution, it captures detailed and vibrant images, delivering sharp and well-exposed results. Reviewers have compared its image quality to that of higher-end cameras, stating that it is in a class of its own for its price range.

The camera's dynamic range, although not as high as some newer mirrorless models, still allows for capturing a wide range of highlight and shadow detail, especially in well-lit scenarios. In terms of low-light performance, experts have noted that the D3500 performs well, with improved performance compared to its predecessor.

Its broad ISO range of 100-25,600 enables users to capture sharp and clear images in low-light shooting situations with minimal noise. While the D3500's image quality is impressive on its own, experts suggest that investing in additional lenses can further enhance its potential. Overall, the Nikon D3500 is highly recommended for beginners and experienced photographers alike, offering excellent image quality for a wide range of shooting scenarios.

What is the resolution of the Nikon D3500?

The Nikon D3500 has a resolution of 24.2 megapixels, as mentioned in multiple product reviews in ReviewFinder's database. This high resolution allows for detailed and sharp images, making it suitable for capturing fine details and producing high-quality prints.
Based on 12 quotes from 9 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the dynamic range of the Nikon D3500?

According to the product reviews in ReviewFinder's database, the Nikon D3500 has a dynamic range that is on par with other entry-level DSLRs with APS-C sensors. It is reported to have a total dynamic range of around 10 stops on average for ISO 100-6400. At 100 ISO, the dynamic range is the highest at 11.5 stops. While it may not match the dynamic range of newer mirrorless models like the Nikon Z 50, it still allows for capturing a fairly wide range of highlight and shadow detail, especially in scenarios where there is more available light.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What do the experts say about the low-light performance of the Nikon D3500?

According to a product review on ShutterBug, the expert mentions that every new camera from Nikon has notably improved low-light performance compared to its previous model. Although there was no direct comparison between the D3500 and the D3400, the expert mentions shooting the D3500 at its highest ISO and found it to perform well in low-light conditions at the giant Jacks and Ball sculptures in Parker Colorado’s Discovery Park. Additionally, in a product review on PhotographyBlog, it is stated that the Nikon D3500 has a broad ISO range of 100-25,600, making it easy to capture sharp, clear images in low-light shooting situations with very little noise. This suggests that the D3500 performs well in low-light conditions. Overall, the experts' comments imply that the Nikon D3500 has improved low-light performance compared to its predecessor and is capable of capturing sharp images with minimal noise in challenging lighting situations.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What do the experts say about the image quality of the Nikon D3500?

According to various product experts, the image quality of the Nikon D3500 is highly praised. Reviewers have consistently mentioned that the D3500 offers excellent image quality, often comparable to or even better than some higher-end cameras. They have noted that the camera's 24-megapixel sensor captures detailed and vibrant images, delivering sharp and well-exposed results. The D3500's image quality has been described as being in a class of its own for its price range. It is worth noting that some experts have mentioned that while the D3500's image quality is impressive, investing in additional lenses can further enhance its potential. Overall, the consensus is that the D3500 delivers exceptional image quality, making it a great choice for beginners and even experienced photographers.
Based on 12 quotes from 9 sources [show quotes and sources]

Autofocus performance

The autofocus performance of the Nikon D3500 is praised for its speed and accuracy, but may struggle with tracking fast-moving subjects.

The autofocus performance of the Nikon D3500 has received positive feedback from experts. The camera's AF-P kit lens features a fast and quiet stepper motor autofocus design, delivering a snappy response in live view. Nikon has managed to make the live view autofocus feel almost as responsive as a mirrorless camera's, thanks to the AF-P autofocus technology in the kit lens.

The autofocus speed is high and on par with its predecessor, the D3400. The autofocus accuracy is generally considered to be good, with the camera quickly acquiring focus in various lighting conditions. The AF-P kit lens is particularly praised for its fast and accurate autofocus performance.

However, the autofocus system is limited when it comes to tracking moving subjects, as it only has 11 focus points clustered in the center of the frame. It may struggle to keep up with fast-moving or erratic subjects. Nonetheless, for slower or still subjects, the autofocus is quick, reliable, and effective, especially when using the center focus point.

Overall, the autofocus performance of the Nikon D3500 is more than sufficient for entry-level photographers, but may not be ideal for fast-paced action photography.

How fast is the autofocus speed of the Nikon D3500?

The autofocus speed of the Nikon D3500 has received positive feedback from experts. According to a review on Trusted Reviews, the D3500's AF-P kit lens features a stepper motor autofocus design that is not only fast and quiet, but also delivers a snappy response in live view. The same review on Digital Camera World also mentions that Nikon has found a way to make the D3500's live view autofocus feel almost as responsive as a mirrorless camera's, thanks to the AF-P autofocus technology in its kit lens. Additionally, a review on photopoint.com states that the autofocus speed of the D3500 is high and on par with its predecessor, the D3400. It's important to note that the D3500's autofocus system has 11 autofocus points, with the majority of them grouped in the center. While the autofocus speed is generally praised, it may not be as fast or accurate as higher-end Nikon models with more autofocus points spread across the frame. Therefore, if you're looking for a camera specifically for fast-moving subjects or action photography, there may be other Nikon models that offer better autofocus performance.
Based on 5 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

What do the experts say about the autofocus accuracy of the Nikon D3500?

According to the experts, the autofocus accuracy of the Nikon D3500 is generally considered to be good. The camera has 11 autofocus points, which are clustered in the center of the frame. Reviewers have found that the autofocus is responsive and quick to acquire focus in various lighting conditions. The camera's AF-P kit lens is particularly praised for its fast and accurate autofocus performance, even in live view mode. However, it is worth noting that the D3500's autofocus system is contrast-based, which can be slower compared to higher-end cameras with phase-detection autofocus and more AF points. Nonetheless, for the target market of the D3500, which is primarily entry-level photographers, the autofocus performance is considered to be more than sufficient.
Based on 7 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

How well does the autofocus system of the Nikon D3500 track moving subjects?

The autofocus system of the Nikon D3500 is relatively rudimentary when it comes to tracking moving subjects. According to expert reviews, the D3500 has just 11 focus points clustered around the center of the frame, making it limited compared to more intermediate models or mirrorless alternatives. It can struggle to keep up with fast-moving or erratic subjects. However, for slower subjects or still subjects, the autofocus is considered quick, reliable, and effective, especially when using the center focus point. So, while it may not be the best camera for fast-paced action photography, it can still capture clear shots of subjects moving at a moderate pace.
Based on 14 quotes from 9 sources [show quotes and sources]

Video capabilities

The Nikon D3500 offers Full HD video recording with various frame rates and limited stabilization, making it suitable for casual videography but not for professional use or 4K recording.

The Nikon D3500 offers video recording capabilities with a maximum resolution of 1080p, or Full HD. It does not support 4K video recording. The camera provides various frame rates for video recording, including 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, and 24p for Full HD, and 60p and 50p for 720p HD.

The video stabilization feature is available when using the AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3. 5-5. 6G VR lens, which offers up to four stops of image stabilization. This can help reduce camera shake and produce smoother video footage. However, electronic image stabilization may reduce image detail, and the sound of the focus motor in the lens can be picked up by the microphone during video recording.

Overall, while the D3500 offers some level of stabilization, it may not be as advanced as higher-end cameras or dedicated video cameras. The video capabilities of the D3500 are suitable for casual videography, vlogging, and capturing everyday moments in high-quality Full HD resolution.

However, for professional videographers or those requiring 4K video recording, a different camera may be more suitable.

What is the maximum video resolution supported by the Nikon D3500?

The Nikon D3500 supports a maximum video resolution of 1080p, also known as Full HD. According to multiple product reviews, the camera does not have 4K video recording capabilities. The resolution for Full HD is 1920x1080 pixels.
Based on 5 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the available frame rates for video recording on the Nikon D3500?

The Nikon D3500 offers several frame rates for video recording. According to various product reviews, the available frame rates for video recording on the Nikon D3500 are as follows: - 1080p Full HD: The camera can record movies at 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, and 24p. - 720p HD: The camera can record movies at 60p and 50p. Please note that the availability of frame rates may vary depending on the region and settings of the camera.
Based on 9 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]

How effective is the video stabilization feature on the Nikon D3500?

The video stabilization feature on the Nikon D3500 is available when using the AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens. According to a review on PhotographyBlog, this lens offers up to four stops of image stabilization, which can help reduce camera shake and produce smoother video footage. However, it's worth noting that electronic image stabilization, which is available on the D3500, may reduce image detail. Additionally, the same review mentions that the sound of the focus motor in the lens can be picked up by the microphone during video recording. Overall, while the D3500 offers some level of stabilization, it may not be as advanced as what you'd find in higher-end cameras or dedicated video cameras.
Based on 9 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

Battery life

The Nikon D3500 camera stands out for its exceptional battery life, making it a top choice for photographers who require long-lasting power in a compact and lightweight package.

The Nikon D3500 camera is praised for its impressive battery life, capable of powering around 1,550 shots on a single charge. This is a significant improvement compared to its predecessor, the Nikon D3400, and makes it a class-leader in terms of battery performance among entry-level DSLR cameras.

The camera does not offer a battery grip or extended battery options, as it is designed to be compact and lightweight. However, the existing battery performance is already quite impressive, making it suitable for various use cases such as travel photography, outdoor shooting, and extended shooting sessions without the need for frequent recharging.

What is the capacity of the standard battery for the Nikon D3500 camera?

The standard battery for the Nikon D3500 camera is the Nikon EN-EL14a rechargeable Li-ion battery. According to various product reviews, the battery is capable of powering around 1,550 shots on a single charge. This is a significant improvement compared to its predecessor, the Nikon D3400, which had a battery life of 1,200 shots. The extended battery life of the D3500 makes it a class-leader in terms of battery performance among entry-level DSLR cameras.
Based on 17 quotes from 14 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Nikon D3500 offer a battery grip or extended battery options?

No, the Nikon D3500 does not offer a battery grip or extended battery options. It is designed to be a compact and lightweight camera, and as such, it does not have the option for a battery grip. However, the D3500 does have an impressive battery life, capable of shooting up to 1,550 shots on a single charge, which is significantly higher than many other cameras in its class. So, while it doesn't have the option for extended batteries, its existing battery performance is already quite impressive.
Based on 14 quotes from 11 sources [show quotes and sources]

Ergonomics and handling

The Nikon D3500 has received positive feedback for its ergonomic design, lightweight build, and intuitive button layout, making it comfortable and easy to use for photographers of all levels.

The Nikon D3500 has received positive feedback from experts regarding its ergonomics and handling. The camera's aesthetics and build quality have been praised, with the redesigned body and grip making it more enjoyable to use and resulting in better photos. The lightweight monocoque structure of the camera's body provides a cost-saving strategy without compromising its build quality.

The D3500's lightweight design has been compared to that of mirrorless cameras, making it highly portable and easy to use.

The dimensions and weight of the D3500 contribute to its portability and ease of use. The compact size and lightweight nature of the camera make it comfortable to handle and use throughout the day without causing strain. The camera's deep handgrip adds to its comfort and ease of use. The lightweight design is particularly beneficial for travel or outdoor photography, as it can easily fit into smaller camera bags and be carried for extended periods without causing fatigue.

The button placements and functionality of the D3500 greatly impact its ergonomics and ease of operation. The redesigned button layout allows for easier one-handed operation, with the buttons moved to the right side of the camera for easier reach while shooting. The deeper grip and wider spacing for the thumb enhance the camera's handling, reducing hand fatigue.

The dedicated button for switching to live view simplifies the process and allows for quick and easy composition on the LCD screen. The control layout is designed to be intuitive and beginner-friendly, making it easier for beginners to access and adjust settings without navigating complex menus.

Overall, the Nikon D3500 offers a more comfortable and intuitive handling experience for photographers. Its ergonomic and lightweight design, along with the improved grip and control layout, make it suitable for a variety of use cases, including travel, outdoor photography, and beginner-friendly shooting.

What do the experts say about the aesthetics and build quality of the Nikon D3500?

According to the experts, the Nikon D3500 has received positive feedback regarding its aesthetics and build quality. The redesigned camera body and grip have been described as making the D3500 a much more enjoyable camera to use, resulting in better photos (photographylife.com). The lightweight monocoque structure of the D3500's body, similar to the D5600, provides a cost-saving strategy without compromising its build quality (PhotoReview). Reviewers have also mentioned that the camera's build is pretty good and provides stability, especially when using larger and heavier lenses (weobserved.com). Additionally, the D3500's lightweight design has been praised, with some experts comparing its ergonomics to that of mirrorless cameras (photographytalk.com). Overall, the Nikon D3500 has been well-received in terms of aesthetics and build quality.
Based on 16 quotes from 11 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the dimensions and weight of the Nikon D3500, and how does this impact its portability and ease of use?

According to the various product reviews in ReviewFinder's database, the Nikon D3500 has the following dimensions: 124 x 97 x 69.5 mm. In terms of weight, the camera body alone weighs around 415 grams, while with the included kit lens (typically an 18-55mm lens), the weight increases to around 610 grams. The compact size and lightweight design of the Nikon D3500 make it highly portable and easy to use. The smaller and lighter body compared to its predecessor, the D3400, allows for comfortable handling and use throughout the day without causing strain. The camera's deep handgrip is also mentioned as being comfortable to hold. The lightweight nature of the D3500 is particularly beneficial for travel or outdoor photography, as it can easily fit into smaller camera bags or be carried for extended periods without causing fatigue. Reviewers have noted that the camera's weight is comparable to many mirrorless cameras, which are known for their portability. Overall, the dimensions and weight of the Nikon D3500 contribute to its portability, making it a suitable choice for photographers who prioritize ease of use and mobility.
Based on 16 quotes from 14 sources [show quotes and sources]

How do the button placements and functionality of the Nikon D3500 affect its overall ergonomics and ease of operation?

The button placements and functionality of the Nikon D3500 have a significant impact on its overall ergonomics and ease of operation. According to various expert reviews, the redesigned button layout of the D3500, compared to its predecessor, makes it easier to operate the camera with one hand. The buttons have been moved to the right side of the camera, allowing for easier reach while shooting and enabling one-handed operation. This layout change also helps in maintaining a firm grip on the camera while adjusting settings or capturing images. Additionally, the D3500 features a deeper grip, making it more comfortable to hold and operate. The wider spacing for the thumb on the back of the camera further enhances the camera's handling. These ergonomic improvements contribute to a better overall shooting experience and reduce the likelihood of hand fatigue, especially when using larger lenses. Furthermore, the D3500 has a dedicated button for switching to live view, which can be conveniently accessed with just a flick of your forefinger. This feature simplifies the process of engaging live view mode, allowing for quick and easy composition of shots on the LCD screen. Moreover, the camera's control layout has been designed to be more intuitive and beginner-friendly. The main controls, including the playback button and frequently used buttons, are grouped together and located on the right side of the camera's LCD screen. This arrangement makes it easier for beginners to access and adjust settings without having to navigate through complex menus. Overall, the button placements and functionality of the Nikon D3500 contribute to its excellent ergonomics and ease of operation, making it a user-friendly camera for both beginners and enthusiasts alike.
Based on 17 quotes from 12 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Nikon D3500 offer a more comfortable and intuitive handling experience for photographers?

Yes, according to multiple product experts, the Nikon D3500 offers a more comfortable and intuitive handling experience for photographers. The camera has been redesigned with a deeper grip, which improves the overall feel and balance of the camera in hand. The handgrip is wider and squarer than its predecessor, the D3400, and combined with a more pronounced thumb-rest on the back, it enhances the camera's general handling and makes it feel more balanced when using larger lenses. The buttons and controls have also been rearranged, with the most frequently used controls relocated to the right side of the camera's LCD, making them easier to access. This new layout provides a more intuitive control setup, allowing photographers to adjust settings more easily. Overall, the D3500's ergonomic and lightweight design, along with the improved grip and control layout, contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable handling experience for photographers.
Based on 13 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]

Best Alternatives

3 best digital cameras in the same price range as Nikon D3500

Scroll to see all options. Click on the digital camera for more details.
Sony a6700 Fujifilm X-T4 Fujifilm X-T5
Reviews
We don't yet have enough review information for Sony a6700
Reviews
In comparison:
Fujifilm X-T4 rank #2 out of 121. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.9
Amazing
Reviews
We don't yet have enough review information for Fujifilm X-T5
The Sony a6700 is a highly praised camera that offers excellent image quality, autofocus performance, video capabilities, battery life, and ergonomics, making it suitable for a wide range of photography genres. The Fujifilm X-T4 is a highly praised camera that offers top-notch image quality, excellent autofocus performance, impressive video capabilities, and improved battery life, making it suitable for a wide range of photography needs. The Fujifilm X-T5 is a highly regarded camera known for its exceptional image quality, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and ergonomic design, although its battery life may be a concern for some users.
More product details More product details More product details
Digital Cameras above are offered because they are in the same price range as Nikon D3500. To browse more budget and premium digital cameras go to our digital camera ranking .

Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all digital cameras.

Rank Change Price Digital Camera
BestReviews
Digital Trends
PixelsPhy
Tom's Guide
Photography PX
Lifewire
Rtings.com
Futurism
Gadget Review
PCMag
1
+5 Check price
Canon EOS R6 Mark II
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is a highly praised camera that offers impressive image quality, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and ergonomic design, making it suitable for a wide range of photography needs.
-
-
-
11
-
-
1
-
-
1
2
-1 Check price
Fujifilm X-T4
The Fujifilm X-T4 is a highly praised camera that offers top-notch image quality, excellent autofocus performance, impressive video capabilities, and improved battery life, making it suitable for a wide range of photography needs.
-
1
-
-
-
-
-
1
-
-
3
-1 $489
Olympus Tough TG-6
The Olympus Tough TG-6 is a versatile and durable camera that offers good video quality, making it ideal for capturing action and outdoor adventures, although some reviewers have mentioned issues with audio quality in video recordings.
2
5
-
-
2
-
-
-
-
-
4
-1 $1798
Sony Alpha A7 III
The Sony Alpha A7 III is a highly regarded camera that offers exceptional image quality, fast and accurate autofocus, versatile video capabilities, extended battery life, and comfortable handling, making it suitable for a wide range of photography needs.
1
-
-
-
5
-
-
-
-
-
Show all rows

Highest recommended digital cameras this month

ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. digital cameras below are at the top of our ranking this April.

Scroll to see all options. Click on the digital camera for more details.
Canon EOS R6 Mark II Fujifilm X-T4 Olympus Tough TG-6 Sony Alpha A7 III
Reviews
In comparison:
Canon EOS R6 Mark II rank #1 out of 121. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.8
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
Fujifilm X-T4 rank #2 out of 121. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.9
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
Olympus Tough TG-6 rank #3 out of 121. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.4
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
Sony Alpha A7 III rank #4 out of 121. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.7
Amazing
Price
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is a highly praised camera that offers impressive image quality, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and ergonomic design, making it suitable for a wide range of photography needs. The Fujifilm X-T4 is a highly praised camera that offers top-notch image quality, excellent autofocus performance, impressive video capabilities, and improved battery life, making it suitable for a wide range of photography needs. The Olympus Tough TG-6 is a versatile and durable camera that offers good video quality, making it ideal for capturing action and outdoor adventures, although some reviewers have mentioned issues with audio quality in video recordings. The Sony Alpha A7 III is a highly regarded camera that offers exceptional image quality, fast and accurate autofocus, versatile video capabilities, extended battery life, and comfortable handling, making it suitable for a wide range of photography needs.
More product details More product details More product details More product details