Sony NEX-3 vs YI M1

Below is a in depth assessment of the Sony NEX-3 vs YI M1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Sony and YI. There is a huge difference among the image resolutions of the NEX-3 (14MP) and M1 (20MP) and the NEX-3 (APS-C) and M1 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor size.

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The NEX-3 was brought out 7 years earlier than the M1 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the NEX-3 matches up vs the M1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Sony Alpha NEX-3 and YI M1. The entire galleries are available at Sony NEX-3 Gallery and YI M1 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera, you are going to need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Sony NEX-3 comes with outer 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) whilst the YI M1 has dimensions of 114mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.5" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 350 grams (0.77 lbs).

Analyze the Sony NEX-3 vs YI M1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the NEX-3 vs the M1.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the NEX-3 and M1 is 89 and 87 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to envision the difference in sensor measurements just by going through specifications. The visual here will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the NEX-3 and M1.

To sum up, both of these cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The NEX-3 because of its bigger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF less difficult and the YI M1 will produce more detail having its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The older NEX-3 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.