Sony NEX-5N vs Sony HX30V

Below, we will be reviewing the Sony NEX-5N and Sony HX30V, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are sold by Sony. The image resolution of the NEX-5N (16MP) and the HX30V (18MP) is relatively close but the NEX-5N (APS-C) and HX30V (1/2.3") possess different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The NEX-5N was introduced 4 months prior to the HX30V which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Sony NEX-5N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony HX30V being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the NEX-5N matches up versus the HX30V with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha NEX-5N & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. The whole galleries are viewable at Sony NEX-5N Gallery & Sony HX30V Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and volume. The Sony NEX-5N enjoys exterior dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") along with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Sony HX30V has sizing of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Check the Sony NEX-5N and Sony HX30V in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the NEX-5N against the HX30V.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the NEX-5N and HX30V is 89 and 90 respectively.

More often than not, it is difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing merely by viewing specifications. The photograph below will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the NEX-5N and HX30V.

To sum up, both the cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The NEX-5N having a bigger sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field easier and the Sony HX30V will result in greater detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs somewhat more aggressively.