Nikon 1 AW1 vs Samsung NX5

Below, we are looking at the Nikon 1 AW1 and Samsung NX5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Nikon and Samsung. The resolution of the 1 AW1 (14MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is very close but the 1 AW1 (1") and NX5 (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The 1 AW1 was revealed 3 years after the NX5 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Nikon 1 AW1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting through a detailed comparison, below is a short summary of how the 1 AW1 grades versus the NX5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon 1 AW1 and Samsung NX5. The full galleries are available at Nikon 1 AW1 Gallery and Samsung NX5 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera often, you have to factor its weight and volume. The Nikon 1 AW1 has got exterior dimensions of 114mm x 72mm x 37mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.5") and a weight of 356 grams (0.78 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX5 has sizing of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") having a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check the Nikon 1 AW1 and Samsung NX5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with at that moment. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the 1 AW1 versus the NX5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the 1 AW1 and NX5 is 86 and 80 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes simply by researching specs. The picture below may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the 1 AW1 and NX5.

All in all, the 2 cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The 1 AW1 having a smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh tougher and the Samsung NX5 will render extra detail because of its extra 1MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The younger 1 AW1 will have an advantage in sensor technology.