Sony a5100 vs Sony ZV-E1

Following is a detailed comparison of the Sony a5100 vs Sony ZV-E1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Pro Mirrorless and both are manufactured by Sony. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the a5100 (24MP) and ZV-E1 (12MP) and the a5100 (APS-C) and ZV-E1 (Full frame) posses different sensor sizes.

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The a5100 was launched 9 years prior to the ZV-E1 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the a5100 matches up against the ZV-E1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony ZV-E1. The complete galleries are viewable at Sony a5100 Gallery and Sony ZV-E1 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera, you need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Sony a5100 has physical measurements of 110mm x 63mm x 36mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 283 grams (0.62 lbs) whilst the Sony ZV-E1 has proportions of 121mm x 72mm x 54mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 2.1") along with a weight of 483 grams (1.06 lbs).

Contrast the Sony a5100 vs Sony ZV-E1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that time. The following is a front view over all size comparison of the a5100 and the ZV-E1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the a5100 and ZV-E1 is 89 and 80 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to picture the gap between sensor sizes simply by reading through technical specs. The picture below may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the a5100 and ZV-E1.

As you have seen, each of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The a5100 because of its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF more challenging and the Sony a5100 will resolve extra detail utilizing its extra 12MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop pics more aggressively. The more aged a5100 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.