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Nikon COOLPIX S3500 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£130
  • Avg. price in US: ~$140
  • Sensor size: 1/2.3"
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 1.19 µm
  • Weight: 129 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 220 shots

Nikon COOLPIX S3500 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

3.8

Technical Score

10.0%

8.6

User score

Poor
3.8

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.4

Sensor & Image

25.0%

4.0

Photo Features

18.0%

3.5

Video & Audio

14.0%

4.1

Display & Design

8.0%

2.8

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.1

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
8.6

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.1

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.1
(425)
amazon
4.0
(254)
amazon
3.9
(164)
amazon
4.1
(48)
amazon
4.2
(36)
amazon
5.0
(1)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(952)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(124)
Amazon_logo.png
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Excellent
  • 3.9
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    6.4

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    5.2

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 4.4
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    10

    Weight

    30.0%

    1.8

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 7.4
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.8

    Price

    20.0%

    10

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    1.8

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 3.8
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.4

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

  • 7.4
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Weight

    25.0%

    10

    Thickness

    20.0%

    ?

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 3.3
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    1.0

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    6.4

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 4.3
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Weight

    25.0%

    1.8

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • nikon-coolpix-s3500
nikon-coolpix-s3500

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Nikon Coolpix S3500 is an ultra-slim compact camera featuring a 20.1-megapixel 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor and a 7x optical zoom NIKKOR lens equivalent to 26–182mm. Its main characteristics include a slender 20.5mm body, lens-shift Vibration Reduction (VR), and 720p HD video recording capability at 30fps. Key pros are its extreme portability weighing only 129g, high resolution for large prints, and user-friendly features like Scene Auto Selector and Glamour Retouch filters. However, main cons include a relatively low-resolution 2.7-inch LCD screen (230k-dot), poor performance in low light due to the small CCD sensor, a slow burst rate of just 1.1 fps, and a lack of RAW support or manual exposure controls.

Technical Specifications of Nikon COOLPIX S3500

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.4

Sensor & Image

25.0%

4.0

Photo Features

18.0%

3.5

Video & Audio

14.0%

4.1

Display & Design

8.0%

2.8

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.1

Connectivity & Storage

3.8
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a technical score of 3.82 points, which is lower than 90.9% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.1

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.1
(425)
amazon
4.0
(254)
amazon
3.9
(164)
amazon
4.1
(48)
amazon
4.2
(36)
amazon
5.0
(1)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(952)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(124)
Amazon_logo.png
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

8.6
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a user score of 8.65 points, which is higher than 72.8% of cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
10
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 66.1% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.3

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

6.0
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6 points, which is lower than 68% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

1/2.3"
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 uses a sensor classified as 1/2.3"; it is smaller than the sensor in 60.5% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 38.1% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

20.1 MP
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a main camera resolution of 20.1 MP, which is higher than that of 61.7% of cameras and equal to that of 4.3% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

1.19 µm
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a main camera pixel size of 1.19 µm which is smaller than in 95.3% of cameras and equal to the size in 2.3% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

80
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a base ISO of 80 which is lower than that of 79.8% of cameras and equal to that of 15.7% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

3,200
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 3,200, which is lower than that of 62.8% of cameras and equal to that of 22.7% of cameras.
Show more
Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

99
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has 99 focus points, more than the number offered by 74.6% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 5% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1,280 px
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 supports 1,280 px video recording which is lower quality than that of 71.4% of cameras and equal to that of 18.5% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

9 Mbps
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a video bitrate of 9 Mbps which is lower than that of 92.7% of cameras and equal to that of 4.9% of cameras.
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

Motion JPEG
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

129 g
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 weighs 129 g which is lighter than 93.3% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.1% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

96.8 mm
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a width of 96.8 mm which is narrower than 88.8% of cameras and equal to that of 0.2% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

57.8 mm
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a height of 57.8 mm which is shorter than 89.4% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

20.5 mm
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a thickness of 20.5 mm which is thinner than 92.7% of cameras.
Show more
Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

220 shots
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 220 shots, which is shorter than that of 82.2% of cameras and equal to that of 4.6% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

700 mAh
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a battery capacity of 700 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 88.2% of cameras and equal to those in 3.6% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
Show more

Nikon COOLPIX S3500 vs the average camera

  • 67.3% lighter
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is lighter than the average camera (129 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is lighter than the average camera (129 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.129 g vs 395 g
  • 76 more AF points
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has more focus points than the average camera (99 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
    What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
    When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 200 points

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has more focus points than the average camera (99 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.99 vs 23
  • 23.1 mm narrower
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is narrower than the average camera (96.8 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
    What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
    When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is narrower than the average camera (96.8 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.96.8 mm vs 119.9 mm
  • 3.9 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (20.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 20 MP

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (20.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.20.1 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • 25.5 mm thinner
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is thinner than the average camera (20.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
    What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
    When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is thinner than the average camera (20.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.20.5 mm vs 46 mm
  • 16.1 mm shorter body
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is shorter than the average camera (57.8 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
    What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
    When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is shorter than the average camera (57.8 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.57.8 mm vs 73.9 mm
  • 10x more popular
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
    When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 0.03 GB more storage
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.
    What it is: The total built-in space available for apps, media, and files.
    When it matters: When you keep large libraries of photos, videos, and apps directly on your device.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.0.025 GB vs 0 GB
  • 67.3% lighter
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is lighter than the average camera (129 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 23.1 mm narrower
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is narrower than the average camera (96.8 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 25.5 mm thinner
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is thinner than the average camera (20.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 16.1 mm shorter body
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is shorter than the average camera (57.8 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 3.9 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (20.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • 76 more AF points
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has more focus points than the average camera (99 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • 0.03 GB more storage
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.

Total
Overall
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Connectivity & Storage
  • 0.3 in smaller screen
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
  • No hot shoe
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • Smaller sensor
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
  • 2.15 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.2 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • 22,100 lower expanded ISO
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
    Reduced resolution only.
  • 3,200 lower max ISO
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 4.6 fps slower mechanical burst
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.1 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • No RAW photo capture
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • No manual focus mode
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
  • No manual exposure control
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
  • 26 s shorter maximum exposure
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 supports a shorter maximum exposure than the average camera (4 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
  • 640 px lower video resolution
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • 70% lower video bitrate
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (9 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
  • 110 shots shorter battery life
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has shorter battery life than the average camera (220 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • 420 mAh smaller battery capacity
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (700 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • No HDMI output
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not support HDMI output, the average camera does. 78.7% of cameras support HDMI output.
  • Smaller sensor
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
  • 2.15 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.2 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.2 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.1.19 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • 4.6 fps slower mechanical burst
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.1 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
    When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 10 fps

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.1 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.1.1 fps vs 5.7 fps
  • 0.3 in smaller screen
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
    What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
    When it matters: When you want a larger display for reviewing shots, using menus, or shooting from awkward angles.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 3 in

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.2.7 in vs 3 in
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
    What it is: High Dynamic Range mode for photos, which combines multiple exposures to retain detail in both shadows and highlights.
    When it matters: When you take photos in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark landscape.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • No hot shoe
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
    What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
    When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.

    Importance: LOW

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • 640 px lower video resolution
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
    What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
    When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3840 px

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.1280 px vs 1920 px
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
    What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
    When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 2 microphones

    Nikon COOLPIX S3500 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.1 vs 2
Total
Overall
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Battery & Power
Connectivity & Storage

Graphic comparison of Nikon COOLPIX S3500 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.1
425 Reviews
amazon
4.0
254 Reviews
amazon
3.9
164 Reviews
amazon
4.1
48 Reviews
amazon
4.2
36 Reviews
amazon
5.0
1 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
952 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
124 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
5.0
1 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Nikon COOLPIX S3500?

  • Extremely compact and lightweight design, making it very portable
  • Simple, intuitive menu system and dedicated buttons ideal for beginners
  • Good 7x optical zoom range for its small size
  • Effective built-in image stabilization (Vibration Reduction) for steadier shots
  • Generally high user satisfaction with daytime photo sharpness and clarity

What customers dislike about Nikon COOLPIX S3500?

  • Significant image noise and quality loss in low-light conditions or high ISO settings
  • Video recording lacks reliable autofocus and descriptive detail for close-up items
  • Small 2.7-inch LCD screen with low resolution, which can be difficult to see in bright light
  • Slow processing times and shutter lag between shots
  • Lack of advanced features such as manual focus, RAW support, or a viewfinder
  • Proprietary USB port requires a specific Nikon cable for connectivity

Expert reviews

E
ephotozine.com
05/06/2013
Nikon Coolpix S3500 Review

The Nikon Coolpix S3500 is a compact, metal-bodied budget camera featuring a 7x optical zoom (26-182mm equivalent) and a 20.1-megapixel CCD sensor, according to the ePHOTOzine review. Its, pros include built-in lens-shift vibration reduction, a user-friendly menu, and creative, built-in effects like Glamour Retouch. However, the review notes cons such as a low-resolution 2.7-inch...Read more

I
independent.co.uk
17/04/2013
A week with: Nikon Coolpix S3500

However, the camera has notable limitations and is explicitly not intended for serious photographers. A primary drawback of the on-screen editing system is its inability to alter multiple features simultaneously, forcing users to edit and save only one feature at a time. Additionally, video editing capabilities on the device are quite limited, and the overall image quality—while...Read more

C
chip.de
19/04/2013
Nikon Coolpix S3500 (Digital Camera) Review - CHIP

The Nikon Coolpix S3500 is a budget-friendly compact digital camera priced at around €130, notable for being one of the first in its class to feature a 20-megapixel resolution sensor. While this high pixel count delivers sharper images in bright daylight, it does not offer a significant real-world advantage because image noise is highly visible across all lighting conditions when...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
chip.de
19/04/2013
Nikon Coolpix S3500 - Review [Video]", "Nikon Coolpix S3500 - Test [Video]

The Nikon Coolpix S3500 is a highly compact, budget-friendly point-and-shoot camera originally retailing for around €130. According to the CHIP review, its standout feature is a high-resolution 20-megapixel CCD sensor packed into an ultra-slim, 20.5mm pocketable chassis. Key pros highlighted by technical evaluations include its versatile 7x optical zoom lens (26–182mm equivalent)...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
nikonistas.com
22/04/2014
In-depth review of the Nikon COOLPIX S3500

The Nikon COOLPIX S3500 is a stylish, ultra-slim (20.5 mm) compact digital camera designed for effortless, single-handed operation with streamlined controls and eight available colour options. Its primary strengths (pros) include a high-resolution 20.1-megapixel CCD sensor that allows for detailed image cropping and poster-sized prints, alongside a versatile 7x NIKKOR optical zoom...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
camerarace.com
15/06/2023
Nikon Coolpix S3500 - Review and spec sheet - Camerarace

The Nikon Coolpix S3500 is recognized for its compact design, weighing only 129 grams with dimensions of 97 x 58 x 21 mm, making it ideal for daily, on-the-go photography. It features an integrated optical image stabilizer that enhances performance by reducing motion blur in handheld, low-light situations. However, the camera is limited by a small image sensor that restricts overall...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hardware.info
15/02/2014
High-end camera smartphones review: For comparison: Nikon Coolpix S3500

Based on the Hardware Info review archive, high-end smartphones from that era (such as the Sony Xperia Z1 and Nokia Lumia 1020) can successfully challenge and objectively outperform a budget standalone compact camera. In objective laboratory tests measuring image sharpness, color accuracy, and low-light sensitivity, the sub-€100 Nikon Coolpix S3500 showed no measurable performance...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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