Upgrade Guide

Nikon D3500→Nikon D800

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

You own

Nikon

D3500

£214

2018

→

Upgrade to

Nikon

D800

£230 (+£16)

2012

✅

Worthwhile

Clear improvements over the D3500. Whether it justifies the cost depends on which upgrades matter most to your shooting.

What's new in the D800

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	D800
Price	£214	£230
Released	2018	2012	↓
Sensor	24.2MP APS-C CMOS	36.3MP full-frame CMOS
Resolution	24MP	36MP	↑
Video	Full HD 1080p/60	Full HD 1080p/30, 720p/60
Autofocus	11-point phase-detect (1 cross-type) via viewfinder; contrast AF with face priority in live view	51-point phase-detect (15 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)	~900 shots (CIPA)	↓
Weight	415g (with battery)	1000g (with battery)	↓
Weather Sealed	Not weather sealed	Yes	↑
Viewfinder	Optical pentamirror, 95% coverage, 0.85x	Optical pentaprism, 100% coverage, 0.7x
Screen	3.0" fixed LCD, 921k dots	3.2" fixed LCD, 921k dots
Mount	Nikon F-mount (DX)	Nikon F mount
Memory Cards	Single SD slot	Dual slots: CompactFlash + SD

Compare side-by-side

See D3500 and D800 next to each other with our interactive comparison tool.

Get a personalised upgrade score

Tell us what you shoot and we'll score the D800 against your specific genres — not just specs.

Other upgrades from the D3500

Related buying guides

Camera family history