Pentax ist DS2 vs Sony NEX-3

Here is a extended assessment of the Pentax ist DS2 and Sony NEX-3, one being a Advanced DSLR and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Pentax and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap between the sensor resolutions of the ist DS2 (6MP) and NEX-3 (14MP) but they feature the exact same sensor dimensions (APS-C).

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The ist DS2 was revealed 5 years earlier than the NEX-3 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Pentax ist DS2 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going in to a detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the ist DS2 scores against the NEX-3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax ist DS2 and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The full galleries are viewable at Pentax ist DS2 Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and proportions. The Pentax ist DS2 features exterior dimensions of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") with a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs) and the Sony NEX-3 has measurements of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Examine the Pentax ist DS2 and Sony NEX-3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the ist DS2 against the NEX-3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ist DS2 and NEX-3 is 68 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizing purely by checking specs. The graphic underneath may offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the ist DS2 and NEX-3.

All in all, the two cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Sony NEX-3 to give you greater detail because of its extra 8MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The older ist DS2 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.