Olympus SZ-11 vs Sony NEX-5N

Here is a extensive analysis of the Olympus SZ-11 vs Sony NEX-5N, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the SZ-11 (14MP) and the NEX-5N (16MP) is fairly well matched but the SZ-11 (1/2.3") and NEX-5N (APS-C) provide different sensor sizing.

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The SZ-11 was unveiled 2 months before the NEX-5N so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-11 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple summary of how the SZ-11 matches up against the NEX-5N in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-11 and Sony Alpha NEX-5N. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery and Sony NEX-5N Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you should consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-11 offers physical measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5N has dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SZ-11 vs Sony NEX-5N in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the SZ-11 compared to the NEX-5N.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-11 and NEX-5N is 89 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to imagine the difference between sensor sizing simply by reading through specifications. The visual underneath might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-11 and NEX-5N.

Plainly, both of those cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SZ-11 having a tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Sony NEX-5N will resolve greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop pics more aggressively.