Nikon has officially announced the discontinuation of two of its most affordable DSLR models, the D3500 and D5600, marking the end of an era for beginner-friendly options in their lineup.
According to Nikon, “production has ceased on the D3500 and D5600”. The company mentioned that “the remaining stock will sell out at different rates throughout Europe, with no additional stock coming in.” We have reached out to Nikon to find out if this applies globally and will update this article as we receive more information.
This means if you’re looking to purchase a new Nikon D3500, which we still regard as the top beginner DSLR available, you should act quickly. The D5600 is a slightly more advanced option that also ranks highly in our guide to the best DSLRs.
Why is Nikon phasing these models out? The company explained their decision, stating: “Nikon has shifted its research and development focus towards mid to high-end cameras and lenses for professional and enthusiast photographers. We are also aiming to enhance products that cater to younger hobbyists who prioritize video content.”
This strategic change has led to the impressive yet high-priced Nikon Z9, which emphasizes the mirrorless technology that Nikon is now promoting, sidelining its older DSLRs. The statement continued: “We are witnessing the advantages of this focused R&D strategy, evident in successful launches like the Z9, and we are pleased to report that our product pipeline appears robust for the coming years. With this strategy in mind, we have ceased production of the D3500 and D5600 cameras.”
What’s missing from this explanation? The significant influence of smartphones on entry-level camera sales and the persistent drop in DSLR shipments over the past decade. While both the D3500 and D5600 remain excellent choices for beginners, Nikon feels it cannot justify manufacturing new stock for these models while investing in the competitive landscape of mirrorless cameras. This marks a notable transition, one that has been unfolding gradually over recent years.
Analysis: Mirrorless cameras have taken center stage
However, the importance of this latest announcement should not be underestimated. Not long ago, DSLRs were the go-to choice for professional photographers, and they were also the preferred option for beginners seeking their first serious camera.
The official discontinuation of these Nikon models is a bit of a loss for consumer choices. Nonetheless, it seems that the preference for DSLRs, which utilize a mirror to direct light through an optical viewfinder, is declining compared to users who are more comfortable with the completely digital mirrorless approach.
That said, it doesn’t mean buying a DSLR is out of the question, even in 2022. If you favor the bulkier designs and longer battery life of DSLRs over mirrorless options, there are still some excellent deals available. We recently compiled a list of the best second-hand DSLRs for those interested.
