Sony NEX-5R vs Sony HX30V

On this page, we will be analyzing the Sony NEX-5R versus Sony HX30V, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are offered by Sony. The image resolution of the NEX-5R (16MP) and the HX30V (18MP) is relatively comparable but the NEX-5R (APS-C) and HX30V (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor sizes.

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The NEX-5R was introduced 7 months after the HX30V and they are of a similar age. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony HX30V being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the NEX-5R scores against the HX30V in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

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

In case you're intending to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Sony NEX-5R provides physical dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") along with a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs) while the Sony HX30V has dimensions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") having a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Compare the Sony NEX-5R versus Sony HX30V in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the NEX-5R vs the HX30V.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the NEX-5R and HX30V is 89 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, its hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizes just by going through specifications. The picture below should provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the NEX-5R and HX30V.

To sum up, both the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The NEX-5R having a bigger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult and the Sony HX30V will produce extra detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures more aggressively. The more modern NEX-5R will have an advantage in sensor innovation.