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Sony a3000 vs a5100 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Sony a3000

Sony A3000
49%

Sony a5100

Sony A5100
Winner!
60%
Sony a3000
vs
Sony a5100
Price
Brand
Sony
Sony
Model
a3000
a5100
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2013
2014
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
August 27, 2013
August 18, 2014
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a5100 emerges as the winner with a score of 60/100, outperforming the Sony a3000, which scored 49/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2013 and 2014, with launch prices of $400 and $550, respectively. They share several specifications, making them quite similar in some aspects.

The Sony a5100’s edge comes from its compact size, measuring 110 x 63 x 36mm, and lightweight build, weighing 283g, making it more portable than the a3000. The a3000, on the other hand, has a larger body, measuring 128 x 91 x 85mm, and weighs 411g.

Despite the Sony a3000’s lower score, it still offers some advantages, such as a lower launch price, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious photographers. However, the Sony a5100’s higher score and compact design make it a more appealing choice for those prioritizing portability and convenience.

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.

Optics
Optics
58%
66%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20.1 MP
24.3 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5456 x 3632 px
6000 x 4000 px
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOS
CMOS
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 23.5 mm
15.6 x 23.5 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-C
APS-C
Frame Rate
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
2.5 fps
6 fps
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 E
Sony E
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Bionz
Bionz 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.
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
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.
16,000
25,600
Minimum 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.
100
100
Maximum 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.
16000
25600
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30 s
30 s
Maximum 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.
1/ 4000 s
1/ 4000 s
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.
25
179
In-body Stabilization
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.
Electronic
None
Viewfinder Resolution
201,600 dots
N/A

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
Video
56%
56%
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max Video Resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD
Full HD
Max Video Dimensions
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 1080 px
1920 x 1080 px
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 p
60 p
Time-Lapse 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.
AVCHD
MP4, AVI

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.

Features
Features
36%
54%
Built-in Flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
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.
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
LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen Size
3"
3"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
230,400 dots
921,600 dots
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.
Live View
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.

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.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
27%
24%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC / Memory Stick Pro Duo
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
NP-FW50
NP-FW50
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
470 shots
400 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
78%
80%
Portrait (Color Depth)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.'
23.7 bits
24.4 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.'
12.8 EVs
13.4 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better'
1068
1013
Scores

Sony a3000 vs a5100 – Our Verdict

Sony a3000 vs a5100 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a3000 or the Sony a5100:

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