Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Nikon D5500 and Nikon D3500 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Nikon D5500 has external dimensions of 124 x 97 x 70 mm (4.88 x 3.82 x 2.76″) and weighs 420 g (0.93 lb / 14.82 oz) (including batteries). Nikon D3500 has external dimensions of 124 x 97 x 70 mm (4.88 x 3.82 x 2.76″) and weighs 365 g (0.80 lb / 12.87 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Nikon D5500 and the Nikon D3500. In this case, we can see that Nikon D5500 and Nikon D3500 have the exact same height, width and thickness.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Nikon D5500 and Nikon D3500.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Nikon D5500 and Nikon D3500.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Also keep in mind that body weight is not the only deciding factor when comparing two interchangeable camera bodies, you also have to take into account the lenses that you will be using with these bodies. Since both Nikon D5500 and Nikon D3500 have the same Nikon F lens mount and APS-C sized sensors, lenses will not be a differentiator on total size of the system.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Nikon D5500 nor Nikon D3500 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top DSLR Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Nikon D5500's 3.20" LCD screen is slightly larger than Nikon D3500's 3 screen.
Moreover, Nikon D5500 sports a
Fully Articulated screen which you can change the angle and position of the screen almost freely, making it possible to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels, and especially very useful for shooting selfies and video. On the other hand, Nikon D3500 has a fixed type screen which provides almost no flexibility in shooting positions compared to D5500.