First Look at the Nikon D3500

A week after the big Z6/Z7 announcement, Nikon makes another announcement of a new product but this time around we are looking at a very low profile one for their new entry-level camera – the D3500.

Nikon typically releases a new D3xxx every year or so with relatively minor changes and this time around is not any different.

There is very little that has changed inside the camera – most of the changes have to do with ergonomics (all of the buttons apart from the flash) are now on the right of the monitor for easier access, the camera is smaller and especially lighter (12.9 oz. / 365 g down from 14 oz. / 395 g) and the battery life was increased to 1500 shots per charge (up from around 1200) although the battery is still the same EN-EL14a.

Smaller and lighter with better battery life – but is that enough?

The sensor, processor, monitor, and AF system are all the same and so is the video resolution (still up to 1080p 60p).

D3500 main specs:

  • Sensor: 24MP APS-C (DX).
  • Sensitivity: ISO 100-25600
  • AF: 11 points (with center point crossed).
  • Display: 3″ LCD 921k dots.
  • Shooting speed: 5 fps.
  • Shutter: 1/4000 to 30 sec.
  • Video: 1080p/60p.
  • Weight: 12.9 oz (365 g).
  • Battery life: 1,550 shots per charge.
  • Connectivity: BT/SnapBridge support.
  • Price: 499.95 (with a kit lens).

Are these specs enough to attract new entry-level DSLR buyers? possibly. Are they enough to warrant an upgrade for D3200/D3300/D3400 users – probably not.

The dials are also different

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Iddo Genuth
Iddo Genuth is the founder and chief editor of LensVid.com. He has been a technology reporter working for international publications since the late 1990's and covering photography since 2009. Iddo is also a co-founder of a production company specializing in commercial food and product visual content.

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