Canon M vs Nikon 1 J3

Below is a comprehensive assessment of the Canon M and Nikon 1 J3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Canon and Nikon. There is a substantial difference among the resolutions of the M (18MP) and 1 J3 (14MP) and the M (APS-C) and 1 J3 (1") posses different sensor size.

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The M was brought out 16 months before the 1 J3 making them a generation apart from each other. Both cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief view of how the M matches up vs the 1 J3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon EOS M & Nikon 1 J3. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon M Gallery & Nikon 1 J3 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to lug around your camera, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Canon M offers external dimensions of 109mm x 66mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") along with a weight of 298 grams (0.66 lbs) while the Nikon 1 J3 has proportions of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 201 grams (0.44 lbs).

Check out the Canon M and Nikon 1 J3 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the M and the 1 J3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the M and 1 J3 is 89 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it can be difficult to picture the contrast in sensor measurements simply by seeing specs. The photograph below may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the M and 1 J3.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The M because of its larger sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF less difficult and the Canon M will provide greater detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images a bit more aggressively. The older M will be behind in sensor tech.