Olympus SZ-30MR vs Sony NEX-5N

Here, we are analyzing the Olympus SZ-30MR versus Sony NEX-5N, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and the NEX-5N (16MP) is fairly similar but the SZ-30MR (1/2.3") and NEX-5N (APS-C) provide different sensor dimensions.

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The SZ-30MR was revealed 7 months earlier than the NEX-5N which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SZ-30MR being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going right into a in-depth comparison, here is a simple view of how the SZ-30MR matches up versus the NEX-5N in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-30MR and Sony Alpha NEX-5N. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery and Sony NEX-5N Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to factor its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-30MR comes with physical measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Sony NEX-5N has specifications of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-30MR versus Sony NEX-5N in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is a front view size comparison of the SZ-30MR versus the NEX-5N.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ-30MR and NEX-5N is 89 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to picture the contrast between sensor sizes just by reading specifications. The picture here should give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-30MR and NEX-5N.

To sum up, both of those cameras feature the identical megapixels but different sensor sizes. The SZ-30MR uses the tinier sensor which is going to make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult. The more aged SZ-30MR is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.