Samsung NX1 vs Sony a5100

Below is a in depth review of the Samsung NX1 and Sony a5100, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Samsung and Sony. The sensor resolution of the NX1 (28MP) and the a5100 (24MP) is pretty well matched and they use the exact same sensor sizing (APS-C).

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The NX1 was revealed very close to the a5100 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras come with different body type with the Samsung NX1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony a5100 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple summary of how the NX1 grades versus the a5100 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Samsung NX1 and Sony Alpha a5100. The full galleries are available at Samsung NX1 Gallery and Sony a5100 Gallery.

For those who are looking to lug around your camera often, you need to factor in its weight and volume. The Samsung NX1 enjoys outer dimensions of 139mm x 102mm x 66mm (5.5" x 4.0" x 2.6") along with a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs) and the Sony a5100 has sizing of 110mm x 63mm x 36mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") with a weight of 283 grams (0.62 lbs).

Contrast the Samsung NX1 and Sony a5100 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing during that time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the NX1 compared to the a5100.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the NX1 and a5100 is 66 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to envision the difference between sensor measurements only by looking at a spec sheet. The graphic here will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the NX1 and a5100.

Clearly, both of these cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Samsung NX1 to resolve more detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots much more aggressively.