Sony NEX-5N vs Sony RX100 V

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Sony NEX-5N and Sony RX100 V, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact and they are both produced by Sony. The sensor resolution of the NEX-5N (16MP) and the RX100 V (20MP) is pretty well matched but the NEX-5N (APS-C) and RX100 V (1") come with totally different sensor size.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The NEX-5N was announced 6 years prior to the RX100 V and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Sony NEX-5N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony RX100 V being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving in to a complete comparison, below is a brief overview of how the NEX-5N scores vs the RX100 V in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Sony Alpha NEX-5N & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V. The whole galleries are available at Sony NEX-5N Gallery & Sony RX100 V Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you will want to take into account its weight and measurements. The Sony NEX-5N features outside dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Sony RX100 V has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") with a weight of 299 grams (0.66 lbs).

Compare the Sony NEX-5N and Sony RX100 V in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the NEX-5N vs the RX100 V.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the NEX-5N and RX100 V is 89 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing simply by checking specifications. The graphic underneath may give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the NEX-5N and RX100 V.

To sum up, the two cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The NEX-5N with its bigger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult and the Sony RX100 V will give you extra detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older NEX-5N is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.