Upgrade Guide

Nikon D3500→Nikon D90

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

You own

Nikon

D3500

£214

2018

→

Upgrade to

Nikon

D90

£25 (-£189)

2008

❌

Skip it

The D90 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	D90
Price	£214	£25
Released	2018	2008	↓
Sensor	24.2MP APS-C CMOS	12.3MP APS-C CMOS
Resolution	24MP	12MP	↓
Video	Full HD 1080p/60	720p/24
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	4.5fps	↓
Battery Life	~1550 shots (CIPA)	~850 shots (CIPA)	↓
Weight	415g (with battery)	700g (with battery)	↓
Weather Sealed	Not weather sealed	Not weather sealed
Viewfinder	Optical pentamirror, 95% coverage, 0.85x	Optical pentaprism, 96% coverage, 0.94x
Screen	3.0" fixed LCD, 921k dots	3.0" fixed LCD, 920k dots
Mount	Nikon F-mount (DX)	Nikon F-mount (DX)
Memory Cards	Single SD slot	Single SD slot

Compare side-by-side

See D3500 and D90 next to each other with our interactive comparison tool.

Get a personalised upgrade score

Tell us what you shoot and we'll score the D90 against your specific genres — not just specs.

Other upgrades from the D3500

Related buying guides

Camera family history