Nikon 1 J3 vs Sony NEX-5R

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Nikon 1 J3 and Sony NEX-5R, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by competitors Nikon and Sony. The resolution of the 1 J3 (14MP) and the NEX-5R (16MP) is pretty similar but the 1 J3 (1") and NEX-5R (APS-C) possess different sensor dimensions.

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The 1 J3 was introduced 16 months after the NEX-5R which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the 1 J3 scores versus the NEX-5R when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon 1 J3 and Sony Alpha NEX-5R. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J3 Gallery and Sony NEX-5R Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J3 comes with outside measurements of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 201 grams (0.44 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5R has specifications of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

See the Nikon 1 J3 and Sony NEX-5R in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at the time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the 1 J3 against the NEX-5R.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the 1 J3 and NEX-5R is 92 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to visualize the gap between sensor sizes purely by reading technical specs. The picture underneath will give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 J3 and NEX-5R.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The 1 J3 using its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF tougher and the Sony NEX-5R will offer you more detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The fresher 1 J3 provides a benefit in sensor innovation.