Sony NEX-5T vs Sony A55

Below is a comprehensive analysis of the Sony NEX-5T vs Sony A55, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR and both are offered by Sony. The sensor resolution of the NEX-5T (16MP) and the A55 (16MP) is pretty close and both cameras have the identical sensor sizing (APS-C).

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The NEX-5T was revealed 3 years later than the A55 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Sony NEX-5T being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A55 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief view of how the NEX-5T scores against the A55 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Sony Alpha NEX-5T & Sony SLT-A55. The full galleries are viewable at Sony NEX-5T Gallery & Sony A55 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera frequently, you will need to factor in its weight and size. The Sony NEX-5T comes with exterior dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") and a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs) while the Sony A55 has specifications of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") having a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Contrast the Sony NEX-5T vs Sony A55 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have at that moment. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the NEX-5T compared to the A55.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the NEX-5T and A55 is 89 and 67 respectively.

Typically, it is very difficult to picture the gap in sensor measurements only by looking through technical specs. The photograph below should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the NEX-5T and A55.

As you can tell, the two cameras feature the identical sensor size and the same MP therefore you can expect comparable quality of files although you will need to take the launch date of the cameras into account. The fresher NEX-5T provides a benefit in sensor tech.