Samsung NX100 vs Sony a5100

Its time to look more closely at the Samsung NX100 vs Sony a5100, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Samsung and Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the NX100 (15MP) and a5100 (24MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor measurements (APS-C).

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The NX100 was launched 4 years before the a5100 which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going right into a full comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the NX100 matches up against the a5100 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Samsung NX100 and Sony Alpha a5100. The complete galleries are provided at Samsung NX100 Gallery and Sony a5100 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Samsung NX100 offers outer dimensions of 120mm x 71mm x 35mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") with a weight of 282 grams (0.62 lbs) whilst the Sony a5100 has specifications 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 NX100 vs Sony a5100 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the NX100 vs the a5100.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the NX100 and a5100 is 88 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to visualise the gap between sensor sizes merely by looking at specs. The image below might give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the NX100 and a5100.

All in all, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Sony a5100 to give you greater detail utilizing its extra 9MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The more aged NX100 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.