Sony NEX-C3 vs Sony RX100 VA

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Sony NEX-C3 and Sony RX100 VA, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Large Sensor Compact and they are both created by Sony. The image resolution of the NEX-C3 (16MP) and the RX100 VA (20MP) is fairly well matched but the NEX-C3 (APS-C) and RX100 VA (1") enjoy different sensor sizes.

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The NEX-C3 was revealed 7 years prior to the RX100 VA which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Sony NEX-C3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony RX100 VA being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the NEX-C3 grades versus the RX100 VA with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Alpha NEX-C3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V(A). The full galleries are provided at Sony NEX-C3 Gallery and Sony RX100 VA Gallery.

If you're aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and size. The Sony NEX-C3 has got physical dimensions of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Sony RX100 VA has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") with a weight of 299 grams (0.66 lbs).

Analyze the Sony NEX-C3 and Sony RX100 VA in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilising during that time. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the NEX-C3 compared to the RX100 VA.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the NEX-C3 and RX100 VA is 91 and 89 respectively.

Usually, it's hard to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions merely by checking technical specs. The image here will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the NEX-C3 and RX100 VA.

As you have seen, each of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The NEX-C3 using its larger sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Sony RX100 VA will give more detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The more aged NEX-C3 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.