Sony NEX-3 vs Sony a5000

Here, we are reviewing the Sony NEX-3 versus Sony a5000, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras and both of them are designed by Sony. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the NEX-3 (14MP) and a5000 (20MP) but both cameras provide the identical sensor sizes (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The NEX-3 was launched 4 years prior to the a5000 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the NEX-3 grades against the a5000 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Alpha NEX-3 and Sony Alpha a5000. The complete galleries are available at Sony NEX-3 Gallery and Sony a5000 Gallery.

For those who are looking to lug around your camera often, you'll have to take into account its weight and size. The Sony NEX-3 has got physical measurements of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs) and the Sony a5000 has specifications of 110mm x 63mm x 36mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Check out the Sony NEX-3 versus Sony a5000 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the NEX-3 versus the a5000.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the NEX-3 and a5000 is 89 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to imagine the gap in sensor measurements purely by seeing a spec sheet. The photograph underneath may give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the NEX-3 and a5000.

Clearly, both of the cameras come with the identical sensor size but different megapixels. You should expect to see the Sony a5000 to produce more detail utilizing its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop images a good deal more aggressively. The older NEX-3 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.