Nikon D3400
The Nikon D3400 is one of the best DSLR cameras on the market for those who are making their first steps in becoming a photographer.
This model is great for beginners because it has a Guide Mode feature that allows users to get familiar with the camera’s options. Additionally, if you're looking for a camera that's a little more capable, try the Nikon D3500.
All you need to do is to click on the “?” button and you will get an explanation for each of the camera’s functions. This will help you to master the Nikon D3400, but in the process, you will also learn how to use any other DSLR model. Get more details on the Nikon D3400 Guide Mode in the video below by Jared Polin:
Nikon D3400 Review
Moreover, the Nikon D3400 has all the other specifications you would expect from an entry-level camera – it has an impressive resolution, HD video capabilities, a decent autofocus system, and 5 fps burst shooting mode.
In this review, we will look at the Nikon D3400 specs more closely, and point out its advantages and disadvantages.
Editor's Tip: When you're just starting out in photography, it's better to buy a capable camera and an improved lens rather than a higher-end camera and an entry-level lens. The lens you use will have a greater impact on the quality of your photos, so putting as much of your budget towards better glass will pay dividends. If you buy a used Nikon D3400, for example, you can use the money you save to invest in a 50mm f/1.8G lens, which offers improved performance over a Nikon kit lens.
Nikon D3400 Camera Specs
The Nikon D3400 features an APS-C sensor of 24.2 megapixels. This amount of resolution is pretty impressive for the camera of this price range and it will allow you to make high-quality photos. Nikon D850 has better features than even Nikon D3500 except the size.
In addition, the sensor doesn’t have an optical low-pass filter which will make images sharper and with more details preserved.
Although nowadays people often use smartphones to shoot images, your phone will often make clumsy results in low-light situations. With a native ISO range from 100 to 25,600, the Nikon D3400 makes clear photos in different types of light environments. If there is a need for more light, you can also use a pop-up flash.
Paired with an impressive sensor, the camera also sports an Expeed 4 processing engine which allows burst shooting at 5 fps and Full HD video recording up to 60p.
When it comes to autofocus, you shouldn’t expect a lot since the Nikon D3400 has only 11 autofocus points and allows sensitivity down to -1EV. However, the autofocus system works perfectly fine for a beginner, and you can continuously track subjects, even in live view and while recording videos.
Nikon D3400 Design and Connectivity
The Nikon D3400 is designed to be stunningly simple. It is lightweight (14 oz.) and compact (4.9 in x 3.9 in x 3.0 in.) so it can easily replace your smartphone or point-and-shoot camera.
In addition to its compact design, the camera might be particularly useful for street or travel photographers because of the impressive battery life (1200 shots). Moreover, the grip of D3500 is better than Nikon D3400.
On the other hand, some of the disadvantages of the camera’s design are that it doesn’t have an articulating LCD screen or touchscreen technology. Also, it lacks a microphone port, and has poor connectivity options, making it less attractive for photographers that want an easy experience creating videos as well.
While there is no Wi-Fi, which is a definite negative, you can at least connect the Nikon D3400 to your smart devices by using the SnapBridge application.
Nikon D3400 Price
To sum it up, the Nikon D3400 disadvantages are that it doesn’t have good connectivity options, its autofocus system is not the best one you can find, and there is no touchscreen technology or articulating screen. This Nikon D3500 review article on our website shows new features that were added and not available in D3400.
On the other hand, the Nikon D340 advantages include its compact design, good image quality, impressive battery life, and enhanced usability for new photographers. Get a hands-on Nikon D3400 review in the video below by RealWorld:
Regarding the Nikon D3400 price, it costs around $417.00 brand-new (including an 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens), which is a very affordable price. For this amount of money, you will get everything that is needed for your first steps into the photography world.
Alternatively, you can save some cash and buy a pre-owned Nikon D3400 for barely more than $200.00 (body only). In fact, if you head over to MPB, you can learn all the benefits of buying used gear from one of the top used camera gear retailers out there.