Pentax MX-1 vs Sony NEX-3N

Here, we are comparing the Pentax MX-1 versus Sony NEX-3N, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Pentax and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap between the sensor resolutions of the MX-1 (12MP) and NEX-3N (16MP) and the MX-1 (1/1.7") and NEX-3N (APS-C) have totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The MX-1 was brought out 5 months later than the NEX-3N and they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras feature different body design with the Pentax MX-1 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving right into a full comparison, here is a short overview of how the MX-1 matches up versus the NEX-3N in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax MX-1 and Sony Alpha NEX-3N. The entire galleries are available at Pentax MX-1 Gallery and Sony NEX-3N Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera, you need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Pentax MX-1 provides physical measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3N has dimensions of 110mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.4") having a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Analyze the Pentax MX-1 versus Sony NEX-3N in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use during that time. Following is a front view scale comparison of the MX-1 versus the NEX-3N.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the MX-1 and NEX-3N is 84 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it is tough to visualise the gap between sensor measurements merely by looking at technical specs. The graphic here might offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the MX-1 and NEX-3N.

As you have seen, the two cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The MX-1 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh more difficult and the Sony NEX-3N will give you extra detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images way more aggressively.