Nikon P510 vs Sony NEX-3

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Nikon P510 versus Sony NEX-3, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Nikon and Sony. The resolution of the P510 (16MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is very similar but the P510 (1/2.3") and NEX-3 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizes.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The P510 was brought out 2 years after the NEX-3 which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Nikon P510 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the P510 grades vs the NEX-3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix P510 and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The entire galleries are viewable at Nikon P510 Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you are intending to travel with your camera frequently, you will have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Nikon P510 has outside dimensions of 120mm x 83mm x 102mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 4.0") along with a weight of 555 grams (1.22 lbs) and the Sony NEX-3 has dimensions of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Check the Nikon P510 versus Sony NEX-3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the P510 against the NEX-3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the P510 and NEX-3 is 66 and 89 respectively.

Typically, its difficult to envision the gap between sensor dimensions purely by reading a spec sheet. The pic below might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the P510 and NEX-3.

As you can see, each of these cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The P510 featuring a tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Nikon P510 will offer more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics far more aggressively. The more modern P510 will have an edge in sensor innovation.