Olympus SH-1 vs Sony NEX-5

Here is a in-depth assessment of the Olympus SH-1 versus Sony NEX-5, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the SH-1 (16MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is relatively similar but the SH-1 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The SH-1 was launched 3 years later than the NEX-5 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a short summation of how the SH-1 scores vs the NEX-5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-1 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SH-1 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera often, you should factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SH-1 has got outside dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") having a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Sony NEX-5 has dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SH-1 versus Sony NEX-5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose during that time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the SH-1 and the NEX-5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SH-1 and NEX-5 is 88 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to see the difference between sensor sizing simply by going over specs. The photograph here may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the SH-1 and NEX-5.

All in all, both of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SH-1 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field trickier and the Olympus SH-1 will deliver more detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The fresher SH-1 is going to have an advantage in sensor innovation.