Sony NEX-5R vs Sony W230

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Sony NEX-5R versus Sony W230, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both manufactured by Sony. There exists a large gap between the resolutions of the NEX-5R (16MP) and W230 (12MP) and the NEX-5R (APS-C) and W230 (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor sizing.

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

The NEX-5R was unveiled 3 years later than the W230 and that is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony W230 being a Compact camera.

Before delving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a short summation of how the NEX-5R matches up versus the W230 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Alpha NEX-5R & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W230. The full galleries are viewable at Sony NEX-5R Gallery & Sony W230 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera, you will want to consider its weight and volume. The Sony NEX-5R has got exterior measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs) whilst the Sony W230 has sizing of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Check the Sony NEX-5R versus Sony W230 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 working with at that time. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the NEX-5R compared to the W230.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the NEX-5R and W230 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Quite often, its difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizing only by checking technical specs. The photograph here will provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the NEX-5R and W230.

As you have seen, each of these cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The NEX-5R with its larger sensor will make getting shallow DOF easier and the Sony NEX-5R will give extra detail having an extra 4MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos far more aggressively. The more recent NEX-5R will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.