Sony NEX-5 vs Sony NEX-F3: A Hands-On Mirrorless Showdown for Enthusiasts and Pros

When Sony first launched the NEX series, it marked a pivotal moment in mirrorless camera technology - compact, interchangeable-lens systems that could truly rival DSLRs in image quality and versatility. Fast forward a couple of years, and the lineup had matured, appealing to both beginners and serious enthusiasts. Today, I’m diving deep into two noteworthy entry-level mirrorless models from Sony’s early E-mount lineage: the Sony NEX-5, introduced in 2010, and the Sony NEX-F3, debuted in 2012.

Both cameras target a similar audience: photographers seeking a compact, capable system without the bulk of a DSLR. However, experience testing these side-by-side reveals significant differences in sensor performance, ergonomics, and usability - insights I’m excited to share with you. Whether you’re a keen portraitist, landscape lover, or travel photographer on a budget, this comparison draws from hours of hands-on shooting, controlled lab tests, and real-world fieldwork.

Let’s explore how these two NEX models stack up across the full spectrum of photographic disciplines, technical specs, and value propositions.

First Impressions: Handling and Ergonomics Up Close

Handling is foundational to shooting enjoyment and consistent results. While both the NEX-5 and NEX-F3 sport the characteristic compact rangefinder style of early Sony NEX cameras, subtle differences affect user comfort and control flow.

The NEX-5 impresses with its remarkably compact footprint (111x59x38 mm) and light 287g body weight (battery and card included). It nestles comfortably in smaller hands, and the minimalist design encourages quick operation. The slightly recessed grip, though shallow, provides decent control despite the camera’s small scale.

The NEX-F3 is a bit chunkier (117x67x42 mm) and heavier at 314g, but this weight gain translates to a more pronounced grip. For photographers with larger hands or those prioritizing steady handling during prolonged shoots, the NEX-F3’s improved grip and marginally larger body can reduce hand fatigue and aid stability.

Both cameras sport tilting 3-inch LCD screens with identical 920k dot resolution - a huge plus for framing tricky angles or vlogging setups. The NEX-F3’s screen also uses Sony’s refined TFT Xtra Fine LCD technology, delivering marginally better brightness and color fidelity in outdoor conditions.

Examining top plate layouts clearly shows the intended user focus:

The NEX-5 is minimalist: offering a mode dial, shutter release, and a handful of buttons straightforwardly arranged for rapid access. The absence of dedicated dials or extensive direct controls, however, makes it feel more consumer-oriented. The NEX-F3 retains this simplicity but adds a built-in flash (absent on NEX-5) and a few more control options, highlighting its role as an all-in-one beginner mirrorless.

Ergonomically, both cameras are intuitive but speak to slightly different shooting styles - the NEX-5 prioritizes pocketable stealth, while the NEX-F3 leans into comfortable everyday usability without sacrificing compactness.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Sony’s APS-C E-mount cameras are renowned for offering DSLR-grade sensors in a much smaller package. While both the NEX-5 and NEX-F3 share an APS-C format sensor measuring 23.4 x 15.6 mm (sensor area: 365.04 mm²), their sensor generations differ significantly.

The NEX-5 sports a 14-megapixel CMOS sensor with a pixel count of 4592x3056, coupled with Sony’s original Bionz image processor. The sensor incorporates an anti-aliasing filter to minimize moiré but slightly affects edge sharpness.

By contrast, the NEX-F3 upgrades to a 16-megapixel sensor (4912 x 3264 pixels), also APS-C sized, but benefits from an improved sensor architecture that delivers roughly 0.5 stops better dynamic range and stronger low-light ISO performance. Sony’s iterative refinement of the Bionz processor alongside the sensor allowed better noise handling and deeper color depth, as confirmed by DXO Mark benchmarks (NEX-5 scoring 69 overall vs. NEX-F3 at 73).

In practical terms, this translates to richer color gradations, smoother skin tones in portraits, and finer detail retention in shadow areas on the NEX-F3 - an important consideration for landscape and studio photographers striving for subtle tonal transitions.

The NEX-F3’s ISO sensitivity range also extends to 16,000, compared to 12,800 on the NEX-5. While extreme ISOs are noisy on both, the NEX-F3’s improved sensor makes ISO 3200 and 6400 more usable for low-light applications like indoor events and wildlife dusk shoots.

Viewing Experience: Screen and Viewfinder Options Compared

Both NEX models omit built-in electronic viewfinders, relying on rear LCDs for composition. However, the NEX-F3 optionally supports Sony’s external electronic viewfinder accessory, which is a useful addition for bright outdoor conditions or precision manual focusing.

The tilting screens on both cameras support clean live view, crucial for shooting at unconventional angles. The NEX-F3’s TFT Xtra Fine LCD yields better contrast and sunlight visibility than the NEX-5’s earlier panel.

Interestingly, neither camera offers touchscreen control or face-detection autofocus - a shortcoming for users keen on swift point-and-shoot portraiture. Still, they both offer feature-packed manual controls through physical buttons and dials that experienced photographers find more tactile and reliable.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Responsiveness in Action

Autofocus (AF) in mirrorless cameras is often make-or-break, especially for fast-moving subjects. Both the NEX-5 and NEX-F3 use contrast-detection AF systems, which at first glance sound limiting compared to DSLR phase-detection AF, but Sony’s implementation here is quite competent considering their era.

With 25 AF points spread evenly, both cameras provide decent coverage. However, neither supports face or eye detection autofocus - features that modern smartphones and cameras often offer by default. Continuous AF tracking is available but basic, so action sports or wildlife photographers will find limitations.

Maximum burst rates reveal small differences: the NEX-5 captures at 7 fps, marginally faster than the NEX-F3’s 6 fps. That extra frame per second, while not world-changing, could be decisive when chasing fleeting moments in street or sports shooting.

In practical shooting, I noticed the NEX-5 was sometimes a hair faster in lock-on but more prone to hunting under low-contrast conditions. The NEX-F3’s updated processor appeared to smooth AF response, though frame rates felt slightly more conservative.

Performance Across Photography Genres: Where Each Camera Shines

Photography is diverse - different genres demand nuanced strengths. Both these Sony mirrorless cameras are entry-level but can still carry serious photographic ambitions. Let’s break down their performance across key disciplines.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones and Bokeh

Portraiture demands smooth tonal rendering, accurate skin hues, and pleasing background separation.

Both cameras produce lovely portraits, with the NEX-F3 edging ahead thanks to its higher resolution sensor capturing subtle textures and tonal range. The lack of face-detection AF, however, means manual focus care required, particularly critical for eye sharpness.

Bokeh quality depends more on the lens, but Sony’s extensive E-mount lens ecosystem (121 lenses compatible with both) means you can pair either camera with excellent fast primes like the Sony 50mm f/1.8 OSS.

Landscape Photography: Detail and Dynamic Range

Landscape shooters prioritize resolution, dynamic range, and weather-sealing.

Sony did not equip either camera with weather sealing - valid negatives for outdoor adventures, especially in harsh conditions.

Both cameras deliver solid resolution for large prints or cropping, though the NEX-F3’s 16MP advantage contributes extra detail. The improved dynamic range means better retention of shadow and highlight detail on the NEX-F3, crucial for high-contrast scenes like sunlit mountain vistas.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus and Burst Rates

Fast autofocus and rapid continuous shooting are vital here.

Neither camera’s contrast-detect AF system is optimal for tracking fast subjects, but the NEX-5’s slightly higher burst rate (7 fps) is helpful. The NEX-F3’s more balanced AF response may yield more keepers despite the slightly reduced frame rate.

Long telephoto lenses are easily mounted on either, but their compact bodies mean less ergonomic support for heavy glass - a potential consideration for wildlife photogs.

Street Photography: Discreteness and Portability

Compact size and quiet operation benefit street shooters looking for candid moments.

The NEX-5’s smaller size and lighter weight make it slightly more discreet. Both cameras lack a silent electronic shutter option, but with minimal shutter noise, they’re fairly unobtrusive.

Macro Photography: Focus Precision

While neither camera sports specialized macro features like focus stacking or focus bracketing, manual focus with peaking aids can deliver pleasing results with macro lenses.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Noise Control

The NEX-F3’s higher max ISO (16,000) and better low-light ISO performance (DXO low-light score: 1114 vs. 796 on NEX-5) stand out.

For astrophotography, the absence of built-in intervalometers or time-lapse recording is a downside but can be worked around via external remotes or software.

Video Capabilities: Resolution and Formats

Both cameras support Full HD 1080p video at 60 fps, with the NEX-F3 additionally offering 24 fps recording and more codec options including MPEG-4 alongside AVCHD. Neither offers 4K or in-body stabilization.

Microphone and headphone ports are absent on both, limiting audio flexibility.

Travel Photography: Battery Life and Versatility

Battery life is a standout difference: the NEX-5 offers around 330 shots per charge, while the NEX-F3 pushes this to 470 shots - nearly 50% longer shooting endurance, a critical advantage for travelers without frequent access to charging.

Both cameras share the same compact lens mount (Sony E) compatible with a wide variety of lightweight primes and zooms essential for travel versatility.

Build Quality and Connectivity: Handling the Real World

Neither camera boasts environmental sealing or robust shockproofing, a drawback if you aim to shoot in demanding conditions. Both accommodate a single SD or Memory Stick card slot - sufficient for casual to moderately intensive use.

Connectivity options differ: the NEX-F3 supports 'Eye-Fi Connected' wireless SD cards, enabling some degree of wireless image transfer - a convenience absent in the NEX-5’s purely wired setup. HDMI output and USB 2.0 ports are standard on both.

Despite their age, build quality is solid with durable polycarbonate chassis, though they naturally cannot compete with more modern magnesium alloy bodies.

User Interface and Customizability

Neither model offers touchscreen control, which might frustrate users accustomed to smartphone-like navigation. Menus are logically arranged and responsive thanks to the Bionz processor, but neither camera features illuminated buttons or a top-screen status display.

Both models provide exposure compensation and manual exposure modes (shutter priority, aperture priority, fully manual) plus customizable white balance for creative control.

Pricing and Value: What Do You Get for Your Money?

At their initial launch prices, the NEX-5 retailed around $600, reflecting its introduction as a trailblazing mil-lux mirrorless. The NEX-F3 launched lower at approximately $470, making it a more palatable option for budget-conscious users.

Given the superior sensor, better battery life, and enhanced video format support, the NEX-F3 arguably offers more bang for your buck two years on.

A summary chart of overall ratings underscores this:

Deep Dive: Performance by Photography Type

Some users focus on very specific photography genres, so here’s a distilled blueprint based on detailed testing across styles:

Final Verdict: Which Sony NEX Mirrorless Camera Is Right for You?

After exhaustive hands-on testing across multiple shooting scenarios and technical bench tests, here’s how I’d position these two cameras:

• Choose the Sony NEX-5 if you want the smallest, lightest E-mount camera possible with snappy burst shooting. Its diminutive size and surprisingly potent image quality deliver a no-nonsense system for casual shooters and street photographers who prize discretion above all.

• Opt for the Sony NEX-F3 if you’re budget-conscious but desire more megapixels, significantly better low-light capabilities, improved battery life, and flexible video options. It’s the more versatile camera and better suited to portrait, travel, and general-purpose photography.

While neither model stands up to the latest mirrorless giants in AF sophistication or video specs, both remain compelling choices for enthusiasts starting their journey with interchangeable lens cameras - especially for those who appreciate the compact system ethos Sony pioneered.

Key Takeaways for Enthusisats and Prospective Buyers

• Sensor tech has meaningful impact: even a two-year difference (NEX-5 vs NEX-F3) yields noticeable quality gains.
• Handling nuances matter: a few grams or millimeters difference can change ergonomics appreciably.
• Battery life, often underestimated, is a game changer for on-the-go photography.
• Autofocus systems in early mirrorless cameras lag DSLRs, limiting action shooting suitability.
• Lens ecosystem is a big plus: 121 Sony E-mount lenses and after-market options support both bodies, future-proofing your investment.
• Video features may disappoint some, but HD at 60 fps suffices for casual filmmaking.
• Absence of weather sealing restricts outdoor rugged use but is typical for entry-level models of this era.

If your budget permits and your needs align, the Sony NEX-F3 is the smarter buy overall. But for minimalists and street photographers craving stealth and speed, the NEX-5 will still impress.

Sample Images Showcase

Here are representative images from both cameras - landscape, portrait, and wildlife compositions illustrating sensor strengths and color rendition under varied lighting.

Sony NEX 5 front Sony NEX 5 screen back Sony NEX F3 front Sony NEX F3 screen back

Thank you for reading this in-depth review and comparison. If you have questions about specific shooting scenarios or lens compatibility with these models, I’m always here to share insights from my extensive testing and experience.

Happy shooting!