Olympus VR-330 vs Sony NEX-5

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Olympus VR-330 versus Sony NEX-5, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the VR-330 (14MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is very well matched but the VR-330 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

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The VR-330 was launched 9 months later than the NEX-5 so they are both of a similar age. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus VR-330 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the VR-330 matches up versus the NEX-5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus VR-330 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The complete galleries are available at Olympus VR-330 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus VR-330 has got physical measurements of 101mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5 has sizing of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Check the Olympus VR-330 versus Sony NEX-5 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the VR-330 compared to the NEX-5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the VR-330 and NEX-5 is 94 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it is very tough to see the gap between sensor sizing only by reading through specifications. The visual below will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the VR-330 and NEX-5.

To sum up, the 2 cameras enjoy the same exact megapixel count but not the same sensor sizing. The VR-330 provides the tinier sensor which is going to make achieving shallower depth of field more difficult. The younger VR-330 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.