Samsung SL820 vs Sony NEX-5

Here, we will be contrasting the Samsung SL820 vs Sony NEX-5, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Samsung and Sony. The resolution of the SL820 (12MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is pretty similar but the SL820 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor size.

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The SL820 was announced 15 months prior to the NEX-5 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Samsung SL820 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a short view of how the SL820 scores versus the NEX-5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Samsung SL820 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The whole galleries are provided at Samsung SL820 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Samsung SL820 has outside dimensions of 95mm x 59mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") having a weight of 168 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5 has measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Contrast the Samsung SL820 vs Sony NEX-5 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you choose during that time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the SL820 vs the NEX-5.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the SL820 and NEX-5 is 94 and 89 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing just by reading specifications. The photograph underneath might give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SL820 and NEX-5.

Plainly, the 2 cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SL820 having a tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Sony NEX-5 will offer extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The older SL820 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.