Sony NEX-3 vs Sony RX1

On this page, we are reviewing the Sony NEX-3 and Sony RX1, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Large Sensor Compact and they are both created by Sony. There is a substantial difference among the image resolutions of the NEX-3 (14MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the NEX-3 (APS-C) and RX1 (Full frame) offer totally different sensor size.

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The NEX-3 was unveiled 3 years prior to the RX1 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving right into a thorough comparison, here is a concise summation of how the NEX-3 grades versus the RX1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Alpha NEX-3 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The full galleries are provided at Sony NEX-3 Gallery & Sony RX1 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera often, you will need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Sony NEX-3 comes with physical dimensions of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs) and the Sony RX1 has measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") along with a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Compare the Sony NEX-3 and Sony RX1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the NEX-3 versus the RX1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the NEX-3 and RX1 is 89 and 79 respectively.

Usually, it can be tough to see the contrast in sensor sizes only by viewing technical specs. The picture below will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the NEX-3 and RX1.

As you have seen, each of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The NEX-3 with its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field trickier and the Sony RX1 will result in greater detail having an extra 10MP. Greater resolution will help you crop pics more aggressively. The more aged NEX-3 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.