Pentax RS1500 vs Sony NEX-5

Below is a extensive analysis of the Pentax RS1500 versus Sony NEX-5, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the RS1500 (14MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is pretty well matched but the RS1500 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) feature different sensor size.

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The RS1500 was brought out 10 months later than the NEX-5 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Pentax RS1500 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick overview of how the RS1500 matches up against the NEX-5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax Optio RS1500 and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The entire galleries are provided at Pentax RS1500 Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to lug around your camera often, you will need to consider its weight and volume. The Pentax RS1500 enjoys outer measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Sony NEX-5 has sizing of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax RS1500 versus Sony NEX-5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the RS1500 versus the NEX-5.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the RS1500 and NEX-5 is 93 and 89 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to imagine the gap between sensor measurements just by checking technical specs. The graphic below may provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the RS1500 and NEX-5.

As you have seen, the two cameras posses the exact same resolution albeit different sensor measurements. The RS1500 offers the tinier sensor which is going to make getting shallow DOF more challenging. The more modern RS1500 should have a benefit in sensor technology.