Nikon 1 S1 vs Sony a5100

On this page, we are comparing the Nikon 1 S1 vs Sony a5100, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by brands Nikon and Sony. There exists a substantial gap among the resolutions of the 1 S1 (10MP) and a5100 (24MP) and the 1 S1 (1") and a5100 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor measurements.

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The 1 S1 was unveiled 14 months prior to the a5100 making them a generation apart from one another. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving into a detailed comparison, here is a brief overview of how the 1 S1 matches up vs the a5100 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 S1 & Sony Alpha a5100. The full galleries are available at Nikon 1 S1 Gallery & Sony a5100 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to lug around your camera often, you'll need to factor its weight and size. The Nikon 1 S1 comes with outer 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) and the Sony a5100 has specifications of 110mm x 63mm x 36mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") having a weight of 283 grams (0.62 lbs).

Compare the Nikon 1 S1 vs Sony a5100 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you use at that moment. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the 1 S1 against the a5100.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1 S1 and a5100 is 92 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to visualise the contrast in sensor measurements just by looking through technical specs. The graphic underneath may give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the 1 S1 and a5100.

As you have seen, each of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The 1 S1 with its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh tougher and the Sony a5100 will provide you with extra detail having an extra 14 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images more aggressively. The older 1 S1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.