Samsung HZ35W vs Sony NEX-5

Here is a extensive overview of the Samsung HZ35W vs Sony NEX-5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Samsung and Sony. The image resolution of the HZ35W (12MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is pretty comparable but the HZ35W (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) use different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The HZ35W was brought out within a month of the NEX-5 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Samsung HZ35W being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief summation of how the HZ35W grades against the NEX-5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Samsung HZ35W and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The entire galleries are viewable at Samsung HZ35W Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Samsung HZ35W has got outer measurements of 107mm x 61mm x 28mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs) while the Sony NEX-5 has measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") along with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Compare the Samsung HZ35W vs Sony NEX-5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the HZ35W against the NEX-5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the HZ35W and NEX-5 is 91 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it is tough to picture the gap in sensor sizing only by seeing a spec sheet. The visual underneath might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the HZ35W and NEX-5.

As you can see, both cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The HZ35W featuring a smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF harder and the Sony NEX-5 will show more detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots far more aggressively.