Nikon D3100 vs Sony HX1

On this page, we are reviewing the Nikon D3100 versus Sony HX1, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Nikon and Sony. There is a large difference among the resolutions of the D3100 (14MP) and HX1 (9MP) and the D3100 (APS-C) and HX1 (1/2.4") provide totally different sensor size.

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The D3100 was introduced 21 months later than the HX1 making them a generation apart from each other. Both cameras have different body design with the Nikon D3100 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony HX1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going straight to a complete comparison, here is a brief overview of how the D3100 matches up versus the HX1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon D3100 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. The whole galleries are available at Nikon D3100 Gallery & Sony HX1 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera regularly, you have to factor in its weight and volume. The Nikon D3100 comes with external dimensions of 124mm x 96mm x 75mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 3.0") having a weight of 505 grams (1.11 lbs) whilst the Sony HX1 has sizing of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") and a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs).

Compare the Nikon D3100 versus Sony HX1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the D3100 against the HX1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the D3100 and HX1 is 68 and 67 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to visualise the gap in sensor sizing purely by viewing specs. The graphic underneath will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the D3100 and HX1.

All in all, both of these cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The D3100 using its larger sensor will make achieving bokeh easier and the Nikon D3100 will provide you with greater detail using its extra 5 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop images more aggressively. The newer D3100 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.