Sony NEX-C3 vs Sony RX1R

On this page, we are contrasting the Sony NEX-C3 versus Sony RX1R, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Large Sensor Compact and they are both designed by Sony. There exists a considerable gap among the sensor resolutions of the NEX-C3 (16MP) and RX1R (24MP) and the NEX-C3 (APS-C) and RX1R (Full frame) offer totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The NEX-C3 was launched 22 months prior to the RX1R making them a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Sony NEX-C3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony RX1R being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the NEX-C3 grades vs the RX1R in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Alpha NEX-C3 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R. The complete galleries are viewable at Sony NEX-C3 Gallery & Sony RX1R Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to consider its weight and measurements. The Sony NEX-C3 comes with outer dimensions of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Sony RX1R has proportions of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") and a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Contrast the Sony NEX-C3 versus Sony RX1R in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you select at the time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the NEX-C3 versus the RX1R.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the NEX-C3 and RX1R is 91 and 79 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing merely by researching a spec sheet. The photograph below may give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the NEX-C3 and RX1R.

Clearly, both cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The NEX-C3 featuring a smaller sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field trickier and the Sony RX1R will provide you with greater detail utilizing its extra 8MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images more aggressively. The older NEX-C3 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.