Sony A390 vs Sony NEX-5R

Its time to examine more closely at the Sony A390 and Sony NEX-5R, former is a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and they are both sold by Sony. The resolution of the A390 (14MP) and the NEX-5R (16MP) is relatively well matched and they come with the same exact sensor sizing (APS-C).

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The A390 was launched 3 years prior to the NEX-5R which is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Sony A390 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a quick summary of how the A390 grades versus the NEX-5R with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha DSLR-A390 & Sony Alpha NEX-5R. The complete galleries are available at Sony A390 Gallery & Sony NEX-5R Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and measurements. The Sony A390 provides outside measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") having a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5R has proportions of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Examine the Sony A390 and Sony NEX-5R in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you choose during that time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the A390 against the NEX-5R.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the A390 and NEX-5R is 66 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it can be difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizes merely by reading through specifications. The pic underneath may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the A390 and NEX-5R.

To sum up, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You can count on the Sony NEX-5R to give more detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged A390 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.