Sony NEX-F3 vs Sony HX20V: A Hands-On Comparison For Real-World Photography

Choosing the right camera is never merely about specs on paper. After personally testing both the Sony Alpha NEX-F3 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V extensively in studio and real-world environments, I can confidently say these two serve quite distinct purposes despite some overlapping features. Both were announced in mid-2012 aiming at very different shooters - the mirrorless NEX-F3 targets entry-level enthusiasts seeking image quality and expandability, while the HX20V aims at travel and casual users craving all-in-one convenience and zoom reach in a compact package.

In this in-depth comparison, I’ll walk you through everything from sensor technology to autofocus behavior, handling, image quality, and genre suitability. Along the way, I’ll lean on direct experience and controlled tests as well as real-world shooting. Whether you’re a portrait artist, landscape fanatic, or shutter-happy traveler, I will help you determine which camera suits your approach best.

First Impressions: Size, Design, and Ergonomics

Handling and pocketability often shape how often you’ll reach for a camera. The NEX-F3 is a classic mirrorless rangefinder-style body with a larger grip and interchangeable lenses, while the HX20V is a compact all-in-one superzoom.

Right off the bat, the NEX-F3’s 117 x 67 x 42 mm footprint and 314g bulk felt substantial but manageable - especially for shooters accustomed to DSLRs. The thicker body accommodates a larger APS-C sensor and a body grip that instills confidence. The HX20V, smaller and lighter at 107 x 62 x 35 mm and 254g, slides effortlessly into jacket pockets, an asset for street and travel photographers valuing discretion.

Picking up both side-by-side, I was reminded of why ergonomics matter: the NEX-F3’s wide resin grip and pronounced shutter button placement allowed steady handling during longer sessions - a necessity for wildlife or sports capture. The HX20V’s slender body and retracting lens made it an accessibly lightweight day-wanderer but felt a bit cramped when changing settings on the fly, especially without touchscreen controls.

A Closer Look: Control Layout and Interface

Good control ergonomics support creativity under pressure. Reviewing the control topology with the cameras turned top-side up offers insight into user-friendliness and button reach.

The NEX-F3’s layout puts dedicated dials for exposure compensation and mode selections right where your thumb and forefinger naturally rest. This, combined with a navigational wheel and easy toggling between focus modes, makes for intuitive workflow - a feature often overlooked at this price range.

By contrast, the HX20V’s minimalist control panel means some settings, such as aperture priority or shutter speed, must be accessed through menus rather than dedicated controls (in fact, it doesn’t offer shutter or aperture priority modes at all). While it packs a single control dial and zoom rocker around the shutter release, there’s an evident compromise in manual control agility.

For photographers who relish quick adjustments - particularly in dynamic environments like sports or wildlife - the NEX-F3 is markedly superior here.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Fundamentals

The heart of a camera is its sensor, and the NEX-F3’s APS-C sensor makes a meaningful difference in imaging potential when compared to the smaller sensor inside the HX20V.

• NEX-F3: 16MP, APS-C CMOS sensor, size of 23.4 x 15.6 mm, Bionz processor
• HX20V: 18MP, 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor, size of 6.17 x 4.55 mm, BIONZ processor

Despite the HX20V’s higher nominal megapixels, the smaller sensor size inherently limits dynamic range and low light performance. The NEX-F3’s sensor area is 13x larger, facilitating better light gathering, less noise, and more latitude in post-processing. This size difference is the main reason the NEX-F3 scores significantly higher in DxOMark tests - an overall 73 compared to no direct tests for the HX20V but currencies indicating smaller sensor dominance by a huge margin.

In everyday shooting, this translates into cleaner, more detailed files from the NEX-F3 in shadows and highlights, and better control over noise at elevated ISOs.

Display, Interface, and Live View Experience

User interface - and how you compose and review shots - is mission-critical, especially for those transitioning from smartphones or point-and-shoots.

Both cameras feature 3" screens with roughly 920-922k dot resolution, but with different implementations:

• NEX-F3: Tilting TFT Xtra Fine LCD without touch, useful for low-angle shots and versatility.
• HX20V: Fixed XtraFine TruBlack TFT LCD, no touch, but with excellent contrast for outdoor visibility.

The hinge on the NEX-F3’s screen allows more flexible framing when shooting portraits or macro subjects from unconventional angles - a boon I found valuable in landscape and close-up photography workflows.

The HX20V’s fixed screen limits compositional creativity a bit, though the bright TruBlack tech helps under harsh lighting.

Neither camera offers built-in electronic viewfinders, meaning you rely solely on the LCD for composition - a limitation for some, especially in bright sunlight.

Autofocus Systems Put to the Test

Autofocus (AF) performance is often a make-or-break feature for fast-paced shooting scenarios. Both cameras rely on contrast-detection AF systems but deploy them differently.

• Sony NEX-F3: 25 contrast-detection focus points, selective AF modes, continuous AF available but without phase detection.
• Sony HX20V: 9 focus points, includes face detection, AF tracking available, but no continuous AF.

In my testing across portrait sessions and wildlife outings, the NEX-F3’s greater number of focus areas and selective AF made composing off-center subjects easier. However, the lack of phase detection meant AF speed was moderate, especially in low light or fast action.

The HX20V’s AF is speedy in daylight for a compact but often hunted on telephoto extremes. AF tracking was competent for casual subjects, occasionally soft locking on but not reliable for fast-moving wildlife or sports.

Neither camera excels in rapid continuous AF required for action photography, though the NEX-F3’s 6 fps burst with continuous AF somewhat bridges that gap compared to the HX20V’s 10 fps burst with more limited AF.

Lens Ecosystem: Expandability vs Fixed Convenience

Here lies one of the most defining differences between these two cameras: lens compatibility.

The Sony NEX-F3 uses the E-mount system supporting over 120 lenses ranging from ultra-wide primes to super-telephoto zooms, including third-party options. This dramatically expands photographic possibilities - from expansive landscapes to specialized macro and portrait setups.

Conversely, the HX20V sports a fixed 25-500mm (35mm eqv.) f/3.2–5.8 zoom lens with a 20x telephoto reach, satisfying casual travel or everyday shooting right out of the box but without room to swap optics.

This means:

• For creative photographers craving manual control over perspective and aperture, the NEX-F3 unlocks depth and versatility few mirrorless cameras offered in 2012.
• For point-and-shoot fans who prioritize uninterrupted zoom ranges without fussing over lenses, the HX20V provides a ready-to-go solution with optical image stabilization built-in.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Durability

Neither camera offers professional-grade weather sealing or ruggedness features.

Both are constructed mainly of polycarbonate and uncoated metals, feeling solid but not shock- or dustproof. Neither is waterproof or freezeproof.

However, the larger grip and sturdier feel of the NEX-F3 lend confidence for rugged outdoor use, especially paired with weather-resistant E-mount lenses. In contrast, the HX20V’s compact form factor means you treat it more like a delicate travel companion.

Battery Life and Storage Considerations

The NEX-F3 uses the Sony NPFW50 battery rated for 470 shots per charge per CIPA standards. This is generous for mirrorless cameras of its generation and sufficient for most daily shooting without carrying spares.

The HX20V’s NP-BG1 battery rates 320 shots, which is adequate for travel snapshots but can feel limiting during active days or comprehensive photo walks.

Both cameras use single SD/Memory Stick storage slots, compatible with SDHC and SDXC cards, ensuring modern high-capacity cards can be leveraged.

Connectivity and Extras

Both cameras support Eye-Fi card connectivity for wireless image transfer, practical if tethered workflows aren’t your thing. Neither supports Bluetooth or NFC, reflecting the era of their design.

Both include HDMI output and USB 2.0 ports, but no microphone or headphone jacks, limiting video creators in need of external audio control.

The HX20V has built-in GPS - a rare feature for its class in 2012 - making geo-tagging easy on travel shoots. The NEX-F3 lacks GPS entirely, although this can be circumvented with smartphone apps or tethering solutions.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

With basics covered, let’s dive into how these cameras perform across photography styles that matter.

Portrait Photography

For portraits, the NEX-F3’s larger sensor and interchangeable lenses offer superior skin tone rendition and background blur potential. Bokeh quality benefits from fast prime lenses. While the NEX-F3 lacks eye detection AF, face detection is workable.

HX20V’s smaller sensor struggles producing creamy bokeh, often yielding flat backgrounds - though face detection autofocus helps keep subjects sharp in good light.

If you prize portrait quality, the NEX-F3 clearly wins here.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution are king for landscapes. The NEX-F3 delivers richer detail and latitude in shadows/highlights, plus the ability to employ ultra-wide lenses or tilt-shift adapters for expansive vistas.

Without weather sealing, outdoor adventurers will want to be cautious, but lens options compensate.

The HX20V’s small sensor and fixed lens limit image quality and framing flexibility; its telephoto reach isn’t typically needed for landscapes.

Landscape shooters should lean toward the NEX-F3.

Wildlife Photography

Wildlife demands fast autofocus and telephoto reach.

While neither camera shines under professional wildlife criteria, the NEX-F3 with a telephoto zoom can hold its own in controlled settings, and 6 fps shooting aids capturing fleeting moments.

The HX20V’s impressive 20x zoom is tempting, but AF speed and accuracy fall short for active subjects. A limited burst mode also constrains action capture.

Enthusiasts wanting wildlife shots will favor the NEX-F3.

Sports Photography

Fast subject tracking and high frame rates are critical here.

The HX20V shoots up to 10 fps but with single AF locking - not ideal for moving sports.

The NEX-F3 offers continuous AF but at slightly slower 6 fps max.

Neither camera is designed for professional-level sports, but the NEX-F3’s better AF control and lens flexibility make it a marginally stronger candidate for casual sports shoots.

Street Photography

The compactness and discretion of the HX20V make it well-suited for unobtrusive street shooting. Its silent zoom and snap-to-shoot convenience are pluses.

The NEX-F3 is less suitable for quick candid capture given its size and absence of silent electronic shutter.

Street shooters seeking pocketability will appreciate the HX20V; those wanting better image quality might opt for the NEX-F3 plus a compact prime lens, at the cost of bulk.

Macro Photography

Only the NEX-F3 supports specialized macro lenses enabling sharp close-ups with focusing precision. Its tilting screen aids low-angle framing.

The HX20V’s macro can focus down to 1 cm but cannot match dedicated macro optics for resolution and bokeh smoothness.

Macro fans benefit from the NEX-F3 system.

Night and Astro Photography

The NEX-F3’s larger sensor and higher native ISO range (up to 16,000) provide cleaner images in low-light and night scenes. Long exposures up to 30 seconds are possible, empowering astro shots.

The HX20V maxes out at ISO 12,800 but with smaller sensor noise penalties.

Neither camera includes specialized astro modes, but the NEX-F3’s raw support and sensor size make it the better choice.

Video Capabilities

Both offer 1080p video (NEX-F3 max 60 fps; HX20V max 60 fps) in AVCHD and MPEG-4 formats.

• The NEX-F3 lacks in-body stabilization but can use stabilized lenses.
• The HX20V has optical image stabilization crucial for handheld zoom video.
• Neither supports microphone input or headphone monitoring.

For casual video, the HX20V’s integrated lens stabilization gives smoother results; enthusiasts wanting richer controls and better low-light video may prefer the NEX-F3.

Sony NEX F3 front Sony NEX F3 screen back Sony HX20V front Sony HX20V screen back

Here you can see side-by-side sample images from both cameras illustrating differences - notice the texture fidelity and shadow detail the NEX-F3 captures versus the somewhat softer, noise-prone output from the HX20V at higher ISO settings.

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

The NEX-F3 supports raw formats, facilitating professional-level post-production workflows with enhanced dynamic range and color grading flexibility. Its Bionz processor ensures steady file throughput.

The HX20V is JPEG-only - a limitation for serious photographers needing precise image adjustments.

Neither camera features robust build quality or weather sealing optimal for professional assignments.

According to expert benchmarks and our hands-on scoring, the NEX-F3 outperforms the HX20V in essential photographic criteria by a noticeable margin.

When judged across photography types, the NEX-F3 scores higher in everything requiring control and image quality: portraits, landscapes, macro, and low light. The HX20V shines mostly for travel and street genres where compactness outweighs absolute image quality.

Pricing and Value Considerations

At launch, these cameras were similarly priced (NEX-F3 ~$470; HX20V ~$397). Keep in mind:

• NEX-F3’s cost is just the body; lenses add expense.
• HX20V includes a versatile fixed zoom lens at the base price.

For newcomers prioritizing quality and system growth, the NEX-F3 offers a more future-proof investment, albeit at higher upfront and ongoing costs.

Travelers or casual shooters focused on convenience may find the HX20V delivers better value within a unified package.

Final Thoughts: Which Sony Camera Should You Choose?

The Sony NEX-F3 and HX20V address different photography needs - understanding where you fall on the spectrum helps choose well.

Pick the NEX-F3 if you:

• Prioritize image quality, especially for portraits, landscapes, and low-light photography.
• Want the flexibility of interchangeable lenses and manual exposure modes.
• Value expandable AF options across multiple points and modes.
• Are willing to manage a larger camera and budget additional lenses.
• Shoot RAW and engage in serious post-processing.
• Need a capable entry-level mirrorless system that can grow with your skills.

Choose the HX20V if you:

• Desire a pocketable, lightweight camera with long zoom reach for travel or casual everyday shooting.
• Prefer an all-in-one setup with built-in optical stabilization.
• Shoot mostly JPEGs and don’t need raw output.
• Want built-in GPS for geo-tagging trips.
• Value high-speed shooting bursts and simple operation over manual exposure control.
• Need a compact companion camera that’s quick to grab and shoot.

In my extensive hands-on experience with both, I found the NEX-F3 to be a serious step up for aspiring photographers looking beyond point-and-shoots, especially where image fidelity and creative control matter. The HX20V, meanwhile, delivers surprising versatility for a compact superzoom at its size, ideal for casual or travel photographers.

Whichever you choose, both cameras reflect Sony’s 2012 ethos of blending consumer accessibility with forward-looking technology.

Happy shooting!

For further information on camera handling techniques and lens recommendations for both models, check our detailed guides and in-depth reviews linked below.