Nikon 1 J3 vs Sony NEX-5N

Below, we will be contrasting the Nikon 1 J3 vs Sony NEX-5N, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Nikon and Sony. The sensor resolution of the 1 J3 (14MP) and the NEX-5N (16MP) is relatively close but the 1 J3 (1") and NEX-5N (APS-C) possess totally different sensor sizing.

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The 1 J3 was announced 2 years after the NEX-5N which is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight into a complete comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the 1 J3 scores against the NEX-5N with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 J3 and Sony Alpha NEX-5N. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J3 Gallery and Sony NEX-5N Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and volume. The Nikon 1 J3 has got outer measurements of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 201 grams (0.44 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5N has sizing of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

See the Nikon 1 J3 vs Sony NEX-5N in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the 1 J3 compared to the NEX-5N.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 1 J3 and NEX-5N is 92 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it can be difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes simply by researching technical specs. The pic here may give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 J3 and NEX-5N.

As you can tell, both the cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The 1 J3 with its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field harder and the Sony NEX-5N will result in extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The newer 1 J3 will have an advantage in sensor technology.