Samsung SL720 vs Sony NEX-3

On this page, we will be looking at the Samsung SL720 and Sony NEX-3, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Samsung and Sony. The sensor resolution of the SL720 (12MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is relatively similar but the SL720 (1/2.3") and NEX-3 (APS-C) have different sensor sizing.

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The SL720 was unveiled 10 months prior to the NEX-3 which means that they are of a similar age. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Samsung SL720 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going right into a detailed comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the SL720 grades against the NEX-3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Samsung SL720 & Sony Alpha NEX-3. The full galleries are viewable at Samsung SL720 Gallery & Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor its weight and volume. The Samsung SL720 comes with outside measurements of 92mm x 61mm x 23mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 168 grams (0.37 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3 has sizing of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Examine the Samsung SL720 and Sony NEX-3 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at that moment. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the SL720 and the NEX-3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SL720 and NEX-3 is 94 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it can be difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes purely by reading specifications. The picture below might offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the SL720 and NEX-3.

To sum up, both of those cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SL720 using its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF more difficult and the Sony NEX-3 will offer you extra detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more aged SL720 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.