1 reviews

Sony NEX-5

$650.00 Released June, 2010

The Pros:Sony's first response to the Micro Four Thirds system and the overall miniaturization trend. Extremely user friendly - help guide for each option built directly into the menu system. Smaller and thinner than the other mirror-less compact DSLR cameras from other companies such as Panasonic, Samsung and Olympus.

The Cons:Designed more for casual users who will leave it on iAuto mode - not worth the price for those interested in a fully functional mirrorless dSLR. Image stabilization is provided by the lenses - overall larger cost to the consumer who wants to acquire more lenses, not all lenses provide. Cannot record video in full 1080p.

The Sony NEX-5 is a high definition DSLR camera aimed at photography enthusiasts accustomed to basic point-and-shoot cameras. This is similar to the NEX-3, but features AVCHD 1080i video. Set in a very compact body, it comes with a 16mm f2.8 lens.

Where to Buy

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Sony Alpha NEX-5 Black Digital Camera Kit w/ 18-55mm Lens by PriceGrabber.com

Other interchangeable Sony lenses are available as well.

It is also capable of capturing 3D stereoscopic panoramic images after a firmware upgrade. The sensor captures images at 14.2 megapixels, and writes to either Memory Stick or SDXC media. The 2.95 inch LCD is also adjustable, allowing you to tilt it if you need to hold the camera at an odd angle.

Features

Ultra-compact DSLR
Interchangeable lenses
14.2 megapixel sensor
Memory Stick and SDXC media support
AVCHD 1080i video
Adjustable 2.95-inch LCD
Stereoscopic 3D sweep panoramas
16mm f2.8 lens included

Model Variations

Sony NEX-5 with 18-55mm Lens - MSRP $699.99

User Reviews (1)

Add Pros & Cons

ProScore

Pros

1

Sony's first response to the Micro Four Thirds system and the overall miniaturization trend
1

extremely user friendly - help guide for each option built directly into the menu system
1

smaller and thinner than the other mirror-less compact DSLR cameras from other companies such as Panasonic, Samsung and Olympus
1

sleek build quality - smaller and thinner than the NEX3, constructed of a nicer material (magnesium alloy)
1

capable of recording video in 720p, 1080i high definition (1080i mode is not available on the lower end NEX3)
1

mount is 100% electronic - thinner and smaller body / lens at the expense of a more expensive adapter
1

comes with a small external flashgun (no internal flash)
1

screen can be hinged upwards or downwards to take images at awkward angles
1

capable of recording images in the lossless RAW format
1

high resolution 3.0" display (921k dot)
1

HDMI output for direct playback of recorded content onto compatible HDTVs and displays
1

new E-mount interchangeable lens system
1

alpha mount adapter will be available for compatibility with existing alpha lenses

Cons

1

designed more for casual users who will leave it on iAuto mode - not worth the price for those interested in a fully functional mirrorless dSLR
1

image stabilization is provided by the lenses - overall larger cost to the consumer who wants to acquire more lenses, not all lenses provide
1

cannot record video in full 1080p
1

features the same sensor and internal components as the less expensive NEX3