Sony A290 vs Sony NEX-5T

Here is a extensive assessment of the Sony A290 versus Sony NEX-5T, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are sold by Sony. The sensor resolution of the A290 (14MP) and the NEX-5T (16MP) is relatively close and they enjoy the exact same sensor measurements (APS-C).

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The A290 was launched 4 years prior to the NEX-5T and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony NEX-5T being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting through a complete comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the A290 grades against the NEX-5T in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha DSLR-A290 & Sony Alpha NEX-5T. The complete galleries are provided at Sony A290 Gallery & Sony NEX-5T Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and proportions. The Sony A290 comes with outside measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") and a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5T has measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") and a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Contrast the Sony A290 versus Sony NEX-5T in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the A290 compared to the NEX-5T.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the A290 and NEX-5T is 66 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing only by viewing a spec sheet. The graphic here should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the A290 and NEX-5T.

Clearly, both of those cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit different megapixels. You can count on the Sony NEX-5T to provide you with greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The older A290 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.