Canon SX60 HS vs Sony NEX-5

Let's look a bit more in depth at the Canon SX60 HS versus Sony NEX-5, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Canon and Sony. The sensor resolution of the SX60 HS (16MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is relatively close but the SX60 HS (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor size.

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The SX60 HS was introduced 4 years after the NEX-5 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX60 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the SX60 HS grades against the NEX-5 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX60 HS and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The whole galleries are provided at Canon SX60 HS Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera often, you'll need to take into account its weight and volume. The Canon SX60 HS enjoys outer measurements of 128mm x 93mm x 114mm (5.0" x 3.7" x 4.5") with a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5 has sizing of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") along with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Look at the Canon SX60 HS versus Sony NEX-5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the SX60 HS against the NEX-5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SX60 HS and NEX-5 is 61 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizes purely by viewing specs. The pic below will help provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SX60 HS and NEX-5.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SX60 HS having a smaller sensor will make getting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Canon SX60 HS will provide you with more detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more modern SX60 HS will have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.