Pentax K-30 vs Sony NEX-5

In this article, we are contrasting the Pentax K-30 vs Sony NEX-5, one is a Advanced DSLR and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Pentax and Sony. The sensor resolution of the K-30 (16MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is very close and they come with the same exact sensor size (APS-C).

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The K-30 was brought out 2 years after the NEX-5 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Pentax K-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple summation of how the K-30 grades against the NEX-5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax K-30 and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The entire galleries are available at Pentax K-30 Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera, you will want to factor its weight and proportions. The Pentax K-30 enjoys physical measurements of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5 has measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") and a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Check out the Pentax K-30 vs Sony NEX-5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen during that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the K-30 against the NEX-5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the K-30 and NEX-5 is 63 and 89 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to see the gap in sensor dimensions only by researching specs. The pic here will offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the K-30 and NEX-5.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Pentax K-30 to provide you with more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos far more aggressively. The newer K-30 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.