Nikon 1 S2 vs Sony NEX-3

Here, we will be looking at the Nikon 1 S2 vs Sony NEX-3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by competitors Nikon and Sony. The image resolution of the 1 S2 (14.2MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is relatively similar but the 1 S2 (1") and NEX-3 (APS-C) posses different sensor dimensions.

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The 1 S2 was introduced 4 years after the NEX-3 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief summary of how the 1 S2 matches up versus the NEX-3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 S2 and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon 1 S2 Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera frequently, you have to factor in its weight and volume. The Nikon 1 S2 has physical dimensions of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 190 grams (0.42 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-3 has sizing of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

See the Nikon 1 S2 vs Sony NEX-3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the 1 S2 and the NEX-3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 1 S2 and NEX-3 is 93 and 89 respectively.

Typically, it is very tough to visualize the gap between sensor dimensions simply by reading a spec sheet. The image underneath will offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 S2 and NEX-3.

Clearly, the 2 cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The 1 S2 with its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF trickier and the Nikon 1 S2 will deliver more detail using its extra 0.2MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more modern 1 S2 provides a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.