Upgrade Guide

Nikon D3500→Nikon D5100

Is it worth upgrading? Spec analysis, key improvements, and our verdict.

You own

Nikon

D3500

£110 used

2018

→

Upgrade to

Nikon

D5100

£35 used (-£74)

2011

❌

Skip it

The D5100 offers little measurable spec improvement over the D3500. Spend the money on glass instead.

Unchanged or similar

Suitability by genre

Base scores — computed from verified specs for an enthusiast shooting photo and video. The Upgrade Checker adjusts them for your skill level.

Full spec comparison

Spec	D3500	D5100
Price	£110 used	£35 used
Released	2018	2011	↓
Sensor	24.2MP APS-C CMOS	16.2MP APS-C CMOS
Resolution	24MP	16MP	↓
Video	Full HD 1080p/60	Full HD 1080p/30
Autofocus	11-point phase-detect (1 cross-type) via viewfinder; contrast AF with face priority in live view	11-point phase-detect (1 cross-type) via viewfinder; contrast AF with face priority in live view
Stabilisation	No IBIS (lens-based stabilisation only)	No IBIS (lens-based stabilisation only)
Burst Rate	5fps	4fps	↓
Battery Life	~1550 shots (CIPA)	~660 shots (CIPA)	↓
Weight	415g (with battery)	560g (with battery)	↓
Weather Sealed	Not weather sealed	Not weather sealed
Viewfinder	Optical pentamirror, 95% coverage, 0.85x	Optical pentamirror, 95% coverage, 0.78x
Screen	3.0" fixed LCD, 921k dots	3.0" vari-angle LCD, 921k dots
Mount	Nikon F-mount (DX)	Nikon F-mount (DX)
Memory Cards	Single SD slot	Single SD slot

Compare side-by-side

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