Sony NEX-C3 vs Sony HX300

In this article, we are comparing the Sony NEX-C3 and Sony HX300, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both produced by Sony. The image resolution of the NEX-C3 (16MP) and the HX300 (20MP) is fairly close but the NEX-C3 (APS-C) and HX300 (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizes.

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The NEX-C3 was manufactured 18 months prior to the HX300 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Sony NEX-C3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony HX300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving straight into a complete comparison, below is a brief view of how the NEX-C3 scores vs the HX300 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Alpha NEX-C3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300. The entire galleries are viewable at Sony NEX-C3 Gallery and Sony HX300 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and dimensions. The Sony NEX-C3 offers physical measurements of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Sony HX300 has dimensions of 130mm x 103mm x 93mm (5.1" x 4.1" x 3.7") having a weight of 623 grams (1.37 lbs).

Take a look at the Sony NEX-C3 and Sony HX300 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using at that moment. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the NEX-C3 against the HX300.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the NEX-C3 and HX300 is 91 and 63 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing merely by researching technical specs. The graphic here might give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the NEX-C3 and HX300.

As you have seen, each of these cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The NEX-C3 due to its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Sony HX300 will render greater detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop images far more aggressively. The older NEX-C3 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.