Sony NEX-5R vs Sony RX1R

Here, we will be comparing the Sony NEX-5R vs Sony RX1R, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact and they are both created by Sony. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the NEX-5R (16MP) and RX1R (24MP) and the NEX-5R (APS-C) and RX1R (Full frame) boast totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The NEX-5R was announced 10 months prior to the RX1R and they are of a similar age. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony RX1R being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick view of how the NEX-5R grades vs the RX1R in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha NEX-5R & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R. The whole galleries are viewable at Sony NEX-5R Gallery & Sony RX1R Gallery.

In case you're aiming to travel with your camera, you will want to take into account its weight and size. The Sony NEX-5R features exterior measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs) whilst the Sony RX1R has specifications of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") with a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Contrast the Sony NEX-5R vs Sony RX1R in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the NEX-5R against the RX1R.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the NEX-5R and RX1R is 89 and 79 respectively.

More often than not, its difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by checking out technical specs. The image below may provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the NEX-5R and RX1R.

As you have seen, the two cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The NEX-5R using its smaller sensor will make getting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Sony RX1R will produce extra detail with its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more aged NEX-5R will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.