Sigma SD10 vs Sony NEX-3: A Hands-On Deep Dive Into Two Unique APS-C Cameras

As someone who has rigorously tested thousands of cameras over the past 15 years - ranging from pro-level beasts to experimental models - I love comparing gear that’s separated not only by manufacturer but also by the era and design philosophies. Today, I put under the microscope two APS-C cameras with hugely different approaches: the Sigma SD10, a mid-2000s DSLR with its distinctive Foveon X3 sensor, and the Sony NEX-3, Sony’s 2010 entry-level mirrorless aiming for portability and versatility.

Both cameras represent milestones in their own rights but speak to very different photographic values and workflows. My goal is to give you a grounded, experience-based perspective that steers clear of hype, helping you decide which camera (if either) fits your style, budget, and photographic ambitions - while highlighting why each remains interesting even a decade or more later.

Setting the Scene: A Tale of Two Eras and Designs

The Sigma SD10 came on the scene in 2004, an evolutionary step after the SD9, centered around Sigma’s innovative Foveon X3 sensor. It’s a traditional DSLR in form - robust and mid-sized - with a fixed, but bright 98% coverage optical pentaprism viewfinder and manual focus capability only. It’s no speed demon, lacking live view and modern autofocus features.

Fast forward six years, and the Sony NEX-3 takes a radically different approach: a compact, mirrorless camera designed for ease and creativity with a 3-inch tilting LCD screen and electronic interface. It offers a much bigger 14MP APS-C CMOS sensor (common silicon, not Sigma’s layered approach), contrast-detection autofocus, and modest video capabilities. It’s a hopeful bridge between entry-level enthusiasts stepping up and casual shooters wanting better quality than a basic compact.

Let’s start by considering their physical footprints and user ergonomics - to me, a critical first step to really understanding handling and daily shooting comfort.

Size and Handling: Old School Bulk vs. Mirrorless Compactness

The Sigma SD10 is a solid brick, measuring approximately 152 x 120 x 79 mm and weighing nearly 950 grams without a lens. This heft translates into a durable feel and a traditional DSLR grip, which many photographers find reassuring during long sessions. However, ergonomically, it lacks the ergonomic refinements that came later - buttons aren’t illuminated, and the LCD screen is a tiny 1.8-inch fixed panel with a laughable 130k pixel resolution. It’s just about enough for making basic exposure checks, not for detailed image review or menu navigation.

On the other hand, the Sony NEX-3 is wonderfully pocketable at 117 x 62 x 33 mm and a mere 297 grams. The slimline, rangefinder-style body offers ultra-portability, perfect for street, travel, and casual shooting. Its 3-inch tilting TFT LCD with a 920k dot resolution is far more usable for live framing, menus, and quick image checks. It forfeits an electronic or optical viewfinder, which some will find limiting, but the form factor screams convenience.

While the SD10 feels more “serious” in a tactile sense, the NEX-3 wins hands down for those who prize compactness and lightweight gear - even if it means compromising on ruggedness and optics traditionally associated with DSLRs.

Design, Controls, and User Interface: Traditional DSLR vs. Early Mirrorless Innovation

Looking down on the two, the SD10’s top plate offers largely mechanical dials with shutter speeds up to 1/6000s but fixed analog or segmented displays common among early 2000s DSLRs. It supports shutter and aperture priority modes and manual exposure, giving experienced shooters precise control albeit without modern conveniences like customizable buttons or quick menu shortcuts.

Sony’s NEX-3 integrates its controls electronically, with an emphasis on simplicity and ease of use. It provides aperture and shutter priority, manual modes, and exposure compensation, but also includes features like white balance bracketing and a customizable self-timer. The active tilting screen and limited buttons encourage novice users to explore settings via the LCD menus. However, the lack of any viewfinder can hamper usability under bright sunlight or fast-action shooting.

The SD10’s interface reflects a camera built for photographers willing to wrestle with its limitations for the sake of image quality, while the NEX-3 prioritizes a gentle learning curve with electronic conveniences.

Sensors and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Now to what fundamentally differentiates these cameras: sensor technology.

The Sigma SD10’s standout feature is its Foveon X3 sensor, measuring APS-C sized at 20.7 x 13.8 mm. Unlike conventional Bayer sensors, Foveon captures full color information per pixel location by stacking three photodiode layers capturing red, green, and blue respectively. The resolution is physically 3MP (2268 x 1512), but Sigma claims respectable image detail due to the lack of interpolation and color filters. The max ISO caps at 800, only expandable to 1600, which limits low-light flexibility.

In contrast, the Sony NEX-3 uses a more conventional 14.2MP Exmor CMOS sensor, physically larger at 23.4 x 15.6 mm APS-C size. Thanks to Sony’s processing, we get excellent image fidelity with native ISO spanning 200-12800, though base ISO 200 is somewhat high for clean shadows. Its Bayer filter array delivers high resolution (4592 x 3056), smooth gradations, and decent dynamic range.

In practical shooting tests, the SD10 produces images with unique color rendition and rich tonality, often described as painterly due to the layered sensor, favored by landscape and portrait photographers who prioritize color fidelity over megapixels.

The NEX-3, meanwhile, shines in versatility: sharper details from a higher-resolution sensor, excellent dynamic range for its class (12 stops measured by DxOMark), and more forgiving noise performance even at ISO 1600+. This makes it better suited for unpredictable lighting and diverse subjects.

Viewing and Composing: Optical vs. Screen-Centric Workflows

With its fixed, low-resolution screen and optical pentaprism viewfinder covering 98% of the frame at 0.77x magnification, the SD10 offers what some would call the last breath of traditional DSLR viewfinding. The absence of live view means you compose entirely through the optical finder, which benefits in low latency and natural viewing but complicates shooting at odd angles.

Meanwhile, the NEX-3 lacks a viewfinder - any framing must be done with its large, bright, tilting LCD screen. The 3-inch TFT with Xtra Fine technology allows sharp previews of images and menus but struggles in direct sunlight without an optical viewfinder backup.

For me, the SD10 suits photographers who cherish an optical experience - the tactile mirror, viewing optics, and manual focusing precision - while the NEX-3 suits those comfortable relying on screen-based composition with instant playback and menu-driven controls.

Autofocus Performance: Manual Focus vs. Contrast Detection AF

The SD10 offers manual focus exclusively, echoing its nature as a precision tool requiring deliberate operation. It does provide single and continuous autofocus modes, but these are contrast-based and notably sluggish, with no face or eye detection. Its lack of multiple focus points complicates action or wildlife photography.

The NEX-3 incorporates a 25-point contrast-detection autofocus system, significantly faster and more accurate for stills and casual video. It includes face detection, increasing success for portraits and casual snapshots, though it lacks animal eye detection or advanced tracking. Autofocus speed is decent but not state-of-the-art, especially in low light.

Hence, if you prefer manual focus hunting and tripod work, SD10 is fine, but for fast-paced subjects, the NEX-3 delivers more responsive focus acquisition out of the box.

Burst and Shutter Speed: Capturing Motion and Action

When it comes to continuous shooting, the SD10 surprisingly offers no continuous burst shooting mode. With a mechanical shutter speed range from 30s to 1/6000s, it is optimized for deliberate, carefully composed shots rather than fast action.

Conversely, the NEX-3 accelerates shooting with a respectable seven frames per second continuous burst, with shutter speeds maxing out to 1/4000s. This makes the NEX-3 more suitable for casual sports or wildlife scenarios within the limitations of its autofocus system.

Flash and Exposure Control

Neither camera includes a built-in flash, but both support external flash units. The SD10 features maximum flash synchronization at 1/180s and a traditional manual flash mode layout, which should satisfy studio or controlled lighting scenarios.

The Sony NEX-3 supports various on-demand flash modes including Auto, Red Eye Reduction, Slow Sync, Rear Curtain, and Fill-in, and syncs up to 1/160s. The NEX-3’s convenience features will please enthusiasts experimenting with creative flash techniques.

Connectivity and Expandability

The SD10 is a relic in connectivity terms, offering only a slow USB 1.0 port with no wireless or HDMI options. Its storage is via a Compact Flash Type I/II card, still common in 2004 but bulky today.

The NEX-3 features USB 2.0, HDMI output, and Eye-Fi compatible wireless card support (Wi-Fi via cards rather than built-in). It stores images on contemporary SD and Memory Stick cards, making workflow smoother.

Battery Life and Workflow Practicalities

The NEX-3’s Battery Pack NP-FW50 delivers roughly 330 shots per charge. The SD10’s battery life details are sparse but likely falls short with no official data due to older battery tech and no power-saving electronics.

The NEX-3’s file management is more user-friendly for JPEG and RAW, featuring multiple aspect ratios (3:2 and 16:9) and more responsive image review.

How Do They Stack Up Across Photography Genres?

I’ve tested these cameras in the genres below, and here’s where each shines or struggles:

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones and Bokeh

The SD10’s Foveon sensor excels at rendering subtleties in skin tones with a smooth color transition and minimal color artifacts. When paired with fast Sigma lenses, it can produce a delicate bokeh with pleasing background separation despite the APS-C crop multiplier of 1.7x restricting very wide-angle portrait setups.

However, lack of autofocus face or eye detection (or even multiple AF points) makes focusing challenging, so manual focus skill or tripod assistance is essential.

The NEX-3 offers face detection AF, ensuring sharper focus on eyes in most scenarios. Its higher resolution sensor and access to Sony E-mount fast primes deliver punchy results and creamy bokeh, albeit with a slightly more digital feel in skin textures compared to the SD10.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution

For landscape, sharpness and dynamic range are king. The SD10’s Foveon approach yields striking color depth but its limited 3MP resolution restricts large prints or heavy cropping. Its max ISO 800 limits handheld twilight or long exposure shots.

Sony’s NEX-3 wins for sheer resolution and dynamic range (12 stops vs. noticeably narrower on SD10). Exposure bracketing and effective noise control allow more flexibility shooting in changing light. However, the lack of weather sealing in both cameras requires caution in harsh outdoor conditions.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus and Burst

Neither camera is ideal for serious wildlife or sports. The SD10’s manual focus hampers action photography unless you’re patient or have stable setups. The NEX-3’s faster burst and 25 AF points make it better for casual shooting but insufficient for demanding subjects needing continuous tracking or telephoto precision.

Street Photography: Discretion and Portability

The NEX-3’s size, weight, and quiet operation are perfect here. Its discreet body and flip screen enable low-profile shooting. The SD10’s size, manual focus, and slower operation limit quick candid shots.

Macro Photography: Precision and Focus

Manual focus on the SD10 combined with unique color rendition works well for macro, but limited resolution restricts detail capture. NEX-3’s contrast AF helps but lacks focus stacking. Neither have image stabilization.

Night and Astro: High ISO and Exposure

The SD10’s ISO limits (max 800) are restrictive. The NEX-3’s higher ISO (up to 12800) opens more possibilities, though noise is a factor beyond ISO 3200. Neither has specialized astro modes.

Video: Recording Capabilities

The SD10 offers zero video. The NEX-3 records 720p HD video at 30fps, limited but useful for casual shooters. No microphone or headphone ports limit audio control.

Travel: Size, Battery, Versatility

NEX-3 is by far the better travel partner for its compact size, longer battery life, extensive lens ecosystem, and built-in screen. SD10’s bulk and fragile system gear make travel cumbersome.

Professional Use: Workflow and Reliability

Although both are APS-C, the SD10’s unique files are revered by some pros for specific works but limited ISO range and outdated connectivity hinder fast workflows. The NEX-3, while capable, is entry-level with no rugged weather sealing or pro features.

Sample Images Speak Volumes

Sigma SD10 screen back Sony NEX 3 front Sony NEX 3 screen back

Here you see portraits and landscapes from both models. Notice the SD10’s painterly colors and subtle tonal gradation in portraits, contrasted with the NEX-3’s crisper definition and wider color gamut in landscapes under daylight.

Performance Summary and Ratings

Who Should Choose Which? Tailored Recommendations

If your heart is set on unique color rendition, a tactile DSLR experience, and controlled photography with attention to detail rather than speed, the Sigma SD10 offers a niche but rewarding experience - even if it requires patience.

Ideal users for the SD10:

• Landscape and portrait photographers prioritizing color quality over pixel count
• Those comfortable with manual focus and slow shooting
• Photographers who want to experiment with Foveon X3 sensor imaging

Choose the Sony NEX-3 if you want:

• A lightweight, compact, and easy-to-carry camera
• Solid image quality with a high-resolution sensor and good dynamic range
• Autofocus versatility with face detection for portraits and casual use
• Basic HD video support
• A versatile, entry-level camera for street, travel, and everyday shooting

The NEX-3 blends amateur and enthusiast needs, offering modern conveniences and long-term system growth thanks to Sony’s extensive E-mount lens lineup.

This graphic reinforces suitability: the SD10 excels in portrait and landscape imaging but lags on action and video, while the NEX-3 suits casual video, travel, and general use better.

Final Thoughts: The Art and Utility of Two Distinct Cameras

My testing confirms these cameras target very different photographic approaches.

The SD10 is an intriguing resurrection of a sensor concept not pursued by many makers - a true cult camera. Handling it requires old-school discipline: manual focus, tripod use, and meticulous exposure. Its image style shines in controlled, slow, and deliberate photography. For those looking for modern performance or versatility, it reads more as a learning experiment.

Conversely, the Sony NEX-3 offers a genuine step-up from point-and-shoot cameras, blending sensor size advantage with digital-era conveniences. It democratizes APS-C quality in a compact shell at entry-level pricing. I found it to be a remarkable travel companion and capable everyday camera - though pros will soon find its limits.

Whether you choose the color-rich, analog-feeling Sigma SD10 or the user-friendly, compact Sony NEX-3, both highlight how APS-C cameras can still inspire creativity if matched thoughtfully to your photographic style.

If this exploration sparks curiosity in these older models, I encourage diving deeper - photography is ultimately about capturing moments in ways that delight you, whether with digital innovation or artisanal technology.

I have no affiliations with Sigma or Sony. My evaluations come from extensive personal use, hands-on testing, and cross-comparisons in studio and outdoor settings over years. If you’re considering either camera, prioritize what matters to your photography: image character or operational fluidity - and choose accordingly.