CameraReview

Sony a3000 vs Sony a5100 — Which Is Better?

Sony a3000 versus Sony a5100
Side by side47 specifications
Sony · Mirrorless · 20.1 MP · APS-C · Full HD video Sony a3000
49
SCORE
Sony · Mirrorless · 24.3 MP · APS-C · Full HD video Sony a5100
60
WINNER
Sony a3000
Sony a5100
General
Released
ⓘ
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20132014
Announcement date
ⓘ
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
August 27, 2013August 18, 2014
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 128 x 91 x 85 mm110 x 63 x 36 mm
Camera weight 411 g283 g
Optics58/10066/100
Read the Optics Comparison

Sony a3000 vs a5100 Overview and Optics

After a thorough comparison of the Sony a3000 and the Sony a5100’s optics, the Sony a5100 emerges as the winner with a score of 66/100, an 8-point lead over the Sony a3000’s 58/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including the CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, Sony E lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.

The Sony a5100 outperforms the a3000 in several ways. First, it has a higher megapixel count of 24.3 compared to the a3000’s 20.1, allowing for more detailed and sharper images. Additionally, the a5100 has a faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second (fps) compared to the a3000’s 2.5 fps, making it better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects. The a5100 also boasts a superior Bionz X processor and a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 80, compared to the a3000’s Bionz processor and sensor score of 78. These advantages contribute to the a5100’s enhanced performance and image quality.

On the other hand, the Sony a3000 has fewer favorable points when compared to the a5100. While the a3000’s 20.1-megapixel sensor, 2.5 fps shooting speed, and Bionz processor are not as advanced as the a5100’s features, they still provide decent performance for basic photography needs. However, it falls short in comparison to the a5100’s capabilities.

Considering the differences in their optics, the Sony a5100 is the clear winner, offering superior image quality, faster shooting speed, and an advanced processor. The Sony a3000, while not as impressive, still offers decent performance for those with basic photography needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the user’s requirements and preferences.

Megapixels
ⓘ
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20.1 MP05024.3 MP050
Image resolution
ⓘ
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5456 x 36326000 x 4000
Sensor type
ⓘ
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
ⓘ
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
15.6 x 23.515.6 x 23.5
Sensor format
ⓘ
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
ⓘ
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
2.5 fps0456 fps045
Lens mount
ⓘ
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Sony ESony E
Image processor
ⓘ
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
BionzBionz X
Aspect ratio
ⓘ
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
ⓘ
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
ⓘ
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
160003003280000256003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
ⓘ
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1003020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
ⓘ
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
160003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
ⓘ
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
ⓘ
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
400080032000400080032000
Autofocus points
ⓘ
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
2503001790300
In-body stabilisation
ⓘ
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
✗✗
Viewfinder type
ⓘ
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
ElectronicNone
Viewfinder dots 20160009900000N/A
Video56/10056/100
Read the Video Comparison

Sony a3000 vs a5100 Video Performance

When comparing the video capabilities of the Sony a3000 and the Sony a5100, both cameras have the same video score of 56/100. This means that their video performance is identical, and neither camera is a clear winner in this aspect. Both cameras share several common video specifications, such as Full HD video resolution, maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, and a maximum video frame rate of 60fps. Additionally, neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.

Since both cameras have the same video score and specifications, it is difficult to determine which camera is better in terms of video capabilities. However, it is essential to highlight that both cameras offer good quality Full HD video recording, which is suitable for most casual users and amateur videographers.

On the other hand, it is also important to note that neither camera excels in video capabilities, as they lack features such as built-in time-lapse functionality and higher video resolutions like 4K. This may be a drawback for some users who require these advanced video features for their projects or content creation.

Given that both cameras have the same video capabilities, the choice between the Sony a3000 and Sony a5100 should be based on other factors such as price, design, and additional features that cater to the user’s specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, both cameras provide satisfactory video performance for those who do not require advanced video features.

Video
ⓘ
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
YesYes
Max video resolution
ⓘ
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HDFull HD
Max video format
ⓘ
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 10801920 x 1080
Max video frame rate
ⓘ
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
60 fps60 fps
Timelapse built in
ⓘ
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
✗✗
Video file format
ⓘ
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
AVCHDMP4, AVI
Features36/10054/100
Read the Features Comparison

Sony a3000 vs a5100 Features and Benefits

The Sony a5100 wins the feature comparison with a score of 54/100, while the Sony a3000 scores 36/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a 3-inch screen, no GPS, WIFI connectivity, and no Bluetooth. However, the Sony a5100 surpasses the a3000 in certain areas, making it a better choice for those prioritizing advanced camera features.

The a5100 has a higher screen resolution, with 921,600 dots compared to the a3000’s 230,400 dots. This difference results in a clearer and sharper image display on the a5100, making it easier to review and edit photos. Additionally, the a5100 has a touchscreen, whereas the a3000 does not. The touchscreen provides a more intuitive and efficient way to navigate the camera’s settings and options.

Both cameras have a flip screen, but the a5100 is better in this regard due to its touchscreen capabilities. This combination allows for easier self-portraits and shooting at difficult angles.

The a3000 does not have any advantages over the a5100 in terms of features. Its lower score reflects its lack of advanced specifications compared to the a5100. However, it is important to consider other aspects such as price, performance, and personal preferences when choosing a camera.

Considering the feature comparison, the Sony a5100 is the better camera due to its higher resolution screen and touchscreen capabilities. The a3000 falls short in this area, making the a5100 a more appealing choice for those prioritizing advanced camera features. However, it is essential to take into account other factors before making a final decision.

Builtin flash
ⓘ
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
YesYes
External flash
ⓘ
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
YesNo
GPS
ⓘ
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
✗✗
Weather sealing
ⓘ
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
✗✗
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
ⓘ
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
NoYes
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
ⓘ
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
23040011500015000009216001150001500000
Flip screen
ⓘ
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
YesYes
Live view
ⓘ
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
YesYes
Wi-Fi
ⓘ
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
YesYes
Bluetooth
ⓘ
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
✗✗
Storage & battery27/10024/100
Read the Storage & battery Comparison

Sony a3000 vs a5100 Storage and Battery

The Sony a3000 wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 27/100, while the Sony a5100 scores 24/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot, accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Pro Duo cards. They also use the same NP-FW50 battery type and lack USB charging capabilities.

The Sony a3000 has an advantage in battery life, providing 470 shots per charge compared to the Sony a5100’s 400 shots. This longer battery life makes the a3000 more suitable for extended shooting sessions.

On the other hand, the Sony a5100 accepts an additional memory card format, the Memory Stick Pro-HG Duo, offering slightly more versatility in storage options. However, this advantage is minimal as both cameras still only have one memory card slot.

Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Sony a3000 is the better choice due to its longer battery life, despite the a5100’s slight advantage in memory card compatibility.

Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC / Memory Stick Pro DuoSD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots ✗✗
Battery type NP-FW50NP-FW50
Battery life
ⓘ
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
470 shots1505000400 shots1505000
USB charging ✗✗

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