Sony NEX-5N vs Sony A58

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Sony NEX-5N versus Sony A58, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR and both are built by Sony. The resolution of the NEX-5N (16MP) and the A58 (20MP) is very well matched and they use the same exact sensor size (APS-C).

Meta to Introduce 'AI-Generated' Labels for Media starting next month

The NEX-5N was revealed 3 years earlier than the A58 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Sony NEX-5N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A58 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief overview of how the NEX-5N scores vs the A58 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Alpha NEX-5N and Sony SLT-A58. The full galleries are provided at Sony NEX-5N Gallery and Sony A58 Gallery.

If you are going to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to factor in its weight and size. The Sony NEX-5N has exterior dimensions 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 A58 has specifications of 129mm x 95mm x 78mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 3.1") having a weight of 492 grams (1.08 lbs).

Look at the Sony NEX-5N versus Sony A58 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the NEX-5N versus the A58.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the NEX-5N and A58 is 89 and 68 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizes merely by checking specifications. The picture below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the NEX-5N and A58.

To sum up, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Sony A58 to give extra detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos far more aggressively. The more aged NEX-5N is going to be behind in sensor innovation.