Canon EOS Rebel T8i vs Nikon D3500: Which entry-level DSLR is better
If you are in the market for an entry-level DSLR, you have probably come across the Canon EOS Rebel T8i and the Nikon D3500. These two cameras are both excellent options for beginners, but which one is right for you? In this post, we will compare the Canon EOS Rebel T8i and Nikon D3500 in various categories to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Handling
First, let's talk about design and handling. The Canon EOS Rebel T8i has a slightly larger and heavier body than the Nikon D3500, but it feels more solid and durable. Both cameras have a comfortable grip and intuitive button layout, but the Canon EOS Rebel T8i has better placement of buttons for easy access.
Winner: Canon EOS Rebel T8i
Image Quality
When it comes to image quality, both cameras perform well, but Canon EOS Rebel T8i edges out the Nikon D3500. The Canon EOS Rebel T8i has a 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor with a faster DIGIC 8 image processor that produces sharper, more detailed images with better dynamic range and color depth.
Winner: Canon EOS Rebel T8i
Autofocus
The autofocus system is one of the most critical features in any camera, and here too, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i is slightly ahead of the Nikon D3500. The Canon EOS Rebel T8i has 45 autofocus points, whereas the Nikon D3500 has only 11 autofocus points, making it slower to acquire focus.
Winner: Canon EOS Rebel T8i
Video Quality
If you plan on shooting videos, both cameras will deliver decent 1080p videos at 60fps. However, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i has a significant advantage with 4K video recording, which is not available on the Nikon D3500. The Canon EOS Rebel T8i also has an external microphone jack, which is absent in the Nikon D3500, making it a better choice for video content creators.
Winner: Canon EOS Rebel T8i
Battery Life
The Nikon D3500 has a better battery life than the Canon EOS Rebel T8i. The Nikon D3500 can take up to 1550 shots on a single charge, while the Canon EOS Rebel T8i can take 800 shots on a single charge.
Winner: Nikon D3500
Price
Price is always a crucial factor in any purchase decision. The Nikon D3500 is more affordable than the Canon EOS Rebel T8i, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Winner: Nikon D3500
Final Verdict
Both the Canon EOS Rebel T8i and the Nikon D3500 are excellent entry-level DSLRs. Still, ultimately, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i edges out the Nikon D3500 with its better performance, image quality, and autofocus system. However, the Nikon D3500's lower price point makes it an appealing option for budget buyers.
Regardless of which camera you choose, both the Canon EOS Rebel T8i and the Nikon D3500 are capable of producing stunning photos and videos, making them ideal cameras for beginners.
References:
Canon EOS Rebel T8i specifications: https://www.usa.canon.com/internet/portal/us/home/products/details/cameras/eos-dslr-and-mirrorless-cameras/dslr/eos-rebel-t8i-ef-s-18-55mm-is-stm-lens-kit
Nikon D3500 specifications: https://www.nikonusa.com/en/nikon-products/product/dslr-cameras/d3500.html