Nikon D5100 vs Sony A65

Below is a comprehensive review of the Nikon D5100 versus Sony A65, both Entry-Level DSLR digital cameras by competitors Nikon and Sony. There exists a noticeable gap between the resolutions of the D5100 (16MP) and A65 (24MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The D5100 was unveiled 6 months prior to the A65 and they are both of a similar age. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise view of how the D5100 scores vs the A65 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon D5100 & Sony SLT-A65. The full galleries are provided at Nikon D5100 Gallery & Sony A65 Gallery.

If you are intending to lug around your camera, you will have to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon D5100 features physical measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 79mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.1") along with a weight of 560 grams (1.23 lbs) while the Sony A65 has specifications of 132mm x 97mm x 81mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") with a weight of 622 grams (1.37 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon D5100 versus Sony A65 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with at that moment. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the D5100 versus the A65.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the D5100 and A65 is 66 and 64 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to imagine the difference between sensor measurements merely by reading technical specs. The graphic here may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the D5100 and A65.

As you can tell, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You can expect to see the Sony A65 to offer you more detail having an extra 8MP. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos a bit more aggressively.