Sony NEX-5R vs Sony A35

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Sony NEX-5R versus Sony A35, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR and both are produced by Sony. The sensor resolution of the NEX-5R (16MP) and the A35 (16MP) is relatively well matched and they possess the same exact sensor size (APS-C).

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The NEX-5R was revealed 12 months after the A35 so they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A35 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a short highlight of how the NEX-5R matches up vs the A35 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha NEX-5R and Sony SLT-A35. The full galleries are provided at Sony NEX-5R Gallery and Sony A35 Gallery.

For those who are going to travel with your camera often, you will need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Sony NEX-5R has got external measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") along with a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs) whilst the Sony A35 has dimensions of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") with a weight of 415 grams (0.91 lbs).

Look at the Sony NEX-5R versus Sony A35 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have at that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the NEX-5R compared to the A35.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the NEX-5R and A35 is 89 and 69 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions merely by looking at a spec sheet. The picture below may give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the NEX-5R and A35.

As you can see, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the same resolution so you should expect similar quality of files although you really should take the production date of the products into consideration. The more recent NEX-5R should have an edge in sensor tech.