Nikon 1 S1 vs Sony NEX-5

Following is a comprehensive overview of the Nikon 1 S1 versus Sony NEX-5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Nikon and Sony. There is a crucial difference between the resolutions of the 1 S1 (10MP) and NEX-5 (14MP) and the 1 S1 (1") and NEX-5 (APS-C) posses different sensor sizing.

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The 1 S1 was revealed 3 years after the NEX-5 which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving into a thorough comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the 1 S1 grades versus the NEX-5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon 1 S1 and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 S1 Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry around your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and dimensions. The Nikon 1 S1 provides outside measurements of 102mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.2") along with a weight of 197 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Sony NEX-5 has dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Compare the Nikon 1 S1 versus Sony NEX-5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose during that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the 1 S1 against the NEX-5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the 1 S1 and NEX-5 is 92 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to imagine the difference between sensor sizes merely by looking at a spec sheet. The pic here should offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the 1 S1 and NEX-5.

As you can see, each of the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The 1 S1 with its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF trickier and the Sony NEX-5 will give you greater detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The more recent 1 S1 provides an edge when it comes to sensor technology.