Samsung PL170 vs Sony NEX-3N

Here, we will be evaluating the Samsung PL170 versus Sony NEX-3N, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Samsung and Sony. The sensor resolution of the PL170 (16MP) and the NEX-3N (16MP) is relatively comparable but the PL170 (1/2.3") and NEX-3N (APS-C) provide different sensor sizes.

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The PL170 was announced 3 years before the NEX-3N which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Samsung PL170 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony NEX-3N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a detailed comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the PL170 matches up vs the NEX-3N when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Samsung PL170 & Sony Alpha NEX-3N. The whole galleries are viewable at Samsung PL170 Gallery & Sony NEX-3N Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to think about its weight and volume. The Samsung PL170 provides outer measurements of 95mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") with a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) and the Sony NEX-3N has sizing of 110mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.4") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Compare the Samsung PL170 versus Sony NEX-3N in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at that moment. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the PL170 and the NEX-3N.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the PL170 and NEX-3N is 99 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to picture the contrast in sensor sizes only by seeing a spec sheet. The image underneath should offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the PL170 and NEX-3N.

Clearly, both of those cameras come with the identical megapixel count albeit different sensor sizes. The PL170 has the smaller sensor which is going to make achieving shallow depth of field trickier. The more aged PL170 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.