Sony NEX-5N vs Sony G3

The following is a in depth review of the Sony NEX-5N versus Sony G3, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are designed by Sony. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the NEX-5N (16MP) and G3 (10MP) and the NEX-5N (APS-C) and G3 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The NEX-5N was introduced 2 years after the G3 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Sony NEX-5N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony G3 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a simple summary of how the NEX-5N grades against the G3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha NEX-5N and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-G3. The whole galleries are available at Sony NEX-5N Gallery and Sony G3 Gallery.

When you are looking to travel with your camera frequently, you'll need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Sony NEX-5N features outer measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Sony G3 has dimensions of 97mm x 59mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 185 grams (0.41 lbs).

Take a look at the Sony NEX-5N versus Sony G3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are using at that moment. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the NEX-5N against the G3.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the NEX-5N and G3 is 89 and 94 respectively.

Often, it is hard to envision the contrast between sensor dimensions purely by reading specifications. The image below might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the NEX-5N and G3.

Plainly, both cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The NEX-5N having a bigger sensor will make getting shallower DOF easier and the Sony NEX-5N will deliver greater detail using its extra 6MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs more aggressively. The younger NEX-5N will have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.