Sony NEX-5N vs Sony WX500

In this article, we are evaluating the Sony NEX-5N versus Sony WX500, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both offered by Sony. The image resolution of the NEX-5N (16MP) and the WX500 (18MP) is very comparable but the NEX-5N (APS-C) and WX500 (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor dimensions.

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The NEX-5N was revealed 4 years earlier than the WX500 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Sony NEX-5N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony WX500 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the NEX-5N grades vs the WX500 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Alpha NEX-5N & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500. The full galleries are viewable at Sony NEX-5N Gallery & Sony WX500 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to lug around your camera often, you should factor its weight and size. The Sony NEX-5N enjoys 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 WX500 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 236 grams (0.52 lbs).

Compare the Sony NEX-5N versus Sony WX500 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the NEX-5N and the WX500.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the NEX-5N and WX500 is 89 and 91 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to visualize the contrast in sensor measurements simply by checking out specifications. The photograph below may provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the NEX-5N and WX500.

To sum up, each of these cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The NEX-5N using its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult and the Sony WX500 will provide more detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The older NEX-5N will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.