Samsung NX5 vs Sony RX1

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Samsung NX5 and Sony RX1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Samsung and Sony. There is a huge difference between the resolutions of the NX5 (15MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the NX5 (APS-C) and RX1 (Full frame) come with different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The NX5 was revealed 3 years before the RX1 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving in to a full comparison, below is a short summary of how the NX5 scores vs the RX1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Samsung NX5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The full galleries are provided at Samsung NX5 Gallery and Sony RX1 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry around your camera, you need to take into account its weight and size. The Samsung NX5 comes with exterior dimensions of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") having a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs) while the Sony RX1 has specifications of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") and a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Compare the Samsung NX5 and Sony RX1 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 during that time. Below is the front view over all size comparison of the NX5 and the RX1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the NX5 and RX1 is 80 and 79 respectively.

Generally, its hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes merely by reading through a spec sheet. The pic underneath should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the NX5 and RX1.

Clearly, both of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The NX5 with its tinier sensor is going to make achieving bokeh trickier and the Sony RX1 will give you greater detail because of its extra 9MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged NX5 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.