Sony NEX-5 vs Sony HX400V

Below, we are analyzing the Sony NEX-5 vs Sony HX400V, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both sold by Sony. There is a considerable difference among the image resolutions of the NEX-5 (14MP) and HX400V (20MP) and the NEX-5 (APS-C) and HX400V (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The NEX-5 was revealed 4 years before the HX400V and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony HX400V being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise summation of how the NEX-5 scores vs the HX400V when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Alpha NEX-5 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V. The full galleries are viewable at Sony NEX-5 Gallery & Sony HX400V Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera regularly, you should take into account its weight and measurements. The Sony NEX-5 provides exterior dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") along with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs) and the Sony HX400V has proportions of 130mm x 93mm x 103mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.1") and a weight of 660 grams (1.46 lbs).

Contrast the Sony NEX-5 vs Sony HX400V in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the NEX-5 vs the HX400V.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the NEX-5 and HX400V is 89 and 62 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to see the difference in sensor sizing simply by seeing technical specs. The graphic underneath will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the NEX-5 and HX400V.

As you have seen, each of these cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The NEX-5 having a larger sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field easier and the Sony HX400V will provide greater detail because of its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics much more aggressively. The older NEX-5 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.