Nikon 1 J3 vs Sony NEX-3N

Its time to look much closer at the Nikon 1 J3 and Sony NEX-3N, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Nikon and Sony. The resolution of the 1 J3 (14MP) and the NEX-3N (16MP) is relatively comparable but the 1 J3 (1") and NEX-3N (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor sizing.

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The 1 J3 was launched 10 months later than the NEX-3N so they are both of a similar age. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the 1 J3 scores against the NEX-3N in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 J3 & Sony Alpha NEX-3N. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J3 Gallery & Sony NEX-3N Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera, you're going to have to factor its weight and measurements. The Nikon 1 J3 offers physical measurements of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 201 grams (0.44 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3N has proportions of 110mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Check out the Nikon 1 J3 and Sony NEX-3N in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you select at that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the 1 J3 against the NEX-3N.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 1 J3 and NEX-3N is 92 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizing simply by seeing specifications. The visual here might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 J3 and NEX-3N.

Plainly, both of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The 1 J3 because of its smaller sensor will make achieving bokeh tougher and the Sony NEX-3N will show greater detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The newer 1 J3 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.