Nikon 1 J5 vs Sony a3500

In this article, we are reviewing the Nikon 1 J5 versus Sony a3500, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Sony. The image resolution of the 1 J5 (21MP) and the a3500 (20MP) is very comparable but the 1 J5 (1") and a3500 (APS-C) enjoy different sensor size.

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The 1 J5 was revealed 13 months later than the a3500 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Nikon 1 J5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony a3500 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the 1 J5 grades versus the a3500 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon 1 J5 & Sony Alpha a3500. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J5 Gallery & Sony a3500 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera frequently, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J5 features outside dimensions of 98mm x 60mm x 32mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 231 grams (0.51 lbs) and the Sony a3500 has specifications of 128mm x 91mm x 85mm (5.0" x 3.6" x 3.3") accompanied by a weight of 411 grams (0.91 lbs).

Examine the Nikon 1 J5 versus Sony a3500 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are employing during that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the 1 J5 and the a3500.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the 1 J5 and a3500 is 91 and 69 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing purely by seeing specs. The graphic below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 J5 and a3500.

All in all, the 2 cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The 1 J5 having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Nikon 1 J5 will produce greater detail because of its extra 1MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop images a little more aggressively. The younger 1 J5 should have an advantage in sensor technology.