Sony NEX-3 vs Sony NEX-6

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Sony NEX-3 vs Sony NEX-6, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless and they are both offered by Sony. The sensor resolution of the NEX-3 (14MP) and the NEX-6 (16MP) is pretty well matched and they feature the same exact sensor measurements (APS-C).

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The NEX-3 was released 3 years before the NEX-6 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving through a full comparison, below is a short overview of how the NEX-3 matches up versus the NEX-6 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Sony Alpha NEX-3 and Sony Alpha NEX-6. The complete galleries are viewable at Sony NEX-3 Gallery and Sony NEX-6 Gallery.

When you are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you will need to consider its weight and proportions. The Sony NEX-3 comes with outer measurements of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-6 has measurements of 120mm x 67mm x 43mm (4.7" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 345 grams (0.76 lbs).

Contrast the Sony NEX-3 vs Sony NEX-6 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the NEX-3 and the NEX-6.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the NEX-3 and NEX-6 is 89 and 85 respectively.

Often, it can be difficult to visualize the difference between sensor measurements purely by reading through a spec sheet. The photograph underneath may give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the NEX-3 and NEX-6.

As you can see, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should expect the Sony NEX-6 to give you greater detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The older NEX-3 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.