Nikon 1 J4 vs Sony a3500

Here, we will be comparing the Nikon 1 J4 and Sony a3500, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Sony. The sensor resolution of the 1 J4 (18MP) and the a3500 (20MP) is pretty similar but the 1 J4 (1") and a3500 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor sizes.

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The 1 J4 was brought out at a similar time to the a3500 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Nikon 1 J4 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony a3500 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a complete comparison, here is a brief overview of how the 1 J4 matches up vs the a3500 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon 1 J4 and Sony Alpha a3500. The entire galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J4 Gallery and Sony a3500 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera often, you will want to factor its weight and dimensions. The Nikon 1 J4 comes with outside dimensions of 100mm x 60mm x 29mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 232 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Sony a3500 has dimensions of 128mm x 91mm x 85mm (5.0" x 3.6" x 3.3") along with a weight of 411 grams (0.91 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon 1 J4 and Sony a3500 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the 1 J4 compared to the a3500.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 1 J4 and a3500 is 92 and 69 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing only by going over specs. The graphic underneath will give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 J4 and a3500.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The 1 J4 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF trickier and the Sony a3500 will offer greater detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively.