Pentax XG-1 vs Sony NEX-3N

Here, we will be analyzing the Pentax XG-1 vs Sony NEX-3N, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Pentax and Sony. The image resolution of the XG-1 (16MP) and the NEX-3N (16MP) is relatively similar but the XG-1 (1/2.3") and NEX-3N (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The XG-1 was introduced 17 months after the NEX-3N which makes them a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Pentax XG-1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony NEX-3N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a short introduction of how the XG-1 scores vs the NEX-3N when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax XG-1 & Sony Alpha NEX-3N. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax XG-1 Gallery & Sony NEX-3N Gallery.

If you are looking to travel with your camera regularly, you need to factor its weight and size. The Pentax XG-1 comes with exterior measurements of 119mm x 89mm x 98mm (4.7" x 3.5" x 3.9") and a weight of 567 grams (1.25 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3N has specifications of 110mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.4") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax XG-1 vs Sony NEX-3N in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the XG-1 compared to the NEX-3N.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the XG-1 and NEX-3N is 66 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions just by reading specifications. The pic here will help give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the XG-1 and NEX-3N.

To sum up, both cameras feature the identical resolution albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The XG-1 has the tinier sensor which is going to make getting shallower DOF harder. The more modern XG-1 is going to have a benefit in sensor innovation.