You have a D40, D40x, D50, D60, D3xxx, or D5xxx

Like what you've got: if the camera has four digits in its name and it has a 24mp sensor, stick with it; everyone else should know that the current D3500 and D5600 really are rather large steps forward from what they've got. Choose the D3500 on price, D5600 for the swivel LCD. Indeed, choose the D3400 or D5500 (still available new as I write this) on price if you’re really trying to get the most bang for the buck.
Dislike what you've got: You have three basic choices: (1) stay with the same type of model and get the current version (D3400 or D5600); (2) move to a mirrorless camera (Canon EOS M, Nikon Z50, m4/3, Sony A6###, Fujifilm X, etc.); or (3) move up a model. The next model up is the D7500 and quite an excellent camera. You could also leave DX and move to FX, but that's a huge change, which will also impact your lens closet.

Which should you do? Here's the simple guide:
- Choice #1: Buy a D3500 or D5600 if you're happy with what you've got in terms of camera but want to upgrade simply to update your DSLR equipment to the latest. Be prepared for some surprises if you're moving from 6mp to 24mp, though. Things have changed a lot since you bought your camera. Some of your lenses may need replacing—the 18-200mm is one such candidate—as they just don’t resolve well enough for the new, high pixel density.
- Choice #2: Buy a mirrorless camera, probably a Nikon Z50, if you're more looking to lighten up instead of looking for a huge change in image quality.
- Choice #3: Move up to the D7500 if you've gotten more serious with photography and are starting to feel held back by the high prevalence of automation in your camera.

Dec 23, 2020 at 11:44 AM

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You have a D40, D40x, D50, D60, D3xxx, or D5xxx