Samsung ST80 vs Sony NEX-5

Below, we will be evaluating the Samsung ST80 and Sony NEX-5, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Samsung and Sony. The image resolution of the ST80 (14MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is pretty similar but the ST80 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) come with different sensor measurements.

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The ST80 was introduced 5 months prior to the NEX-5 which means that they are both of a similar age. The two cameras come with different body type with the Samsung ST80 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick overview of how the ST80 scores versus the NEX-5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Samsung ST80 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The whole galleries are available at Samsung ST80 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera regularly, you will have to think about its weight and size. The Samsung ST80 provides outside measurements of 92mm x 55mm x 19mm (3.6" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of 118 grams (0.26 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5 has specifications of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Check out the Samsung ST80 and Sony NEX-5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with during that time. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the ST80 compared to the NEX-5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ST80 and NEX-5 is 96 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it can be difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizing only by reviewing a spec sheet. The photograph here will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the ST80 and NEX-5.

Clearly, each of these cameras posses the exact same megapixels albeit different sensor sizing. The ST80 has the tinier sensor which will make obtaining shallower DOF tougher.