Sony NEX-5N
Sony · Mirrorless · 16.1 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
Score Breakdown
Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.
Independent Lab Scores
General | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sony |
| Model | NEX-5N |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2011 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 24, 2011 |
| Camera type |  Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 111 x 59 x 38 mm |
| Camera weight | 269 g |
Optics54/100 | |
About the OpticsThe Sony NEX-5N earns a score of 52/100 for its general specifications. Launched in 2011, this mirrorless camera has dimensions of 111 x 59 x 38mm and weighs just 269g (0.59lbs). Despite its age, the compact size and lightweight design of the Sony NEX-5N still make it a viable option for casual photographers. However, those seeking cutting-edge technology may find newer models more suitable. Sony NEX-5N Overview and OpticsThe optics of the Sony NEX-5N receive a score of 54/100. This camera features 16.1 megapixels, a shooting speed of 10, a CMOS sensor type, and a Bionz processor. With a DXOMARK sensor score of 77 and an APS-C sensor size, the NEX-5N has respectable specifications. The Sony E lens mount offers compatibility with a range of lenses, but the camera lacks image stabilization. It provides a 3:2 aspect ratio for images. In the current market, the Sony NEX-5N’s optics are not outstanding, but they remain suitable for various photography pursuits. The lack of image stabilization may affect the image quality in certain situations, but the camera’s other specifications offer versatility. The NEX-5N is a decent option for those seeking a reliable and compatible camera with moderate optics capabilities. | |
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16.1 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 4912 x 3264 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | 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 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-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. | 10 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 E |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Bionz |
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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 10030200 |
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. | 256003003280000 |
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. | 10030200 |
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. | 256003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 3044080 |
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. | 400080032000 |
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. | 250300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘIn-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | No |
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. | None |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A |
Video56/100 | |
About the VideoThe Sony NEX-5N receives a video score of 56 out of 100. This camera offers Full HD video resolution with a maximum dimension of 1920 x 1080. Users can record at a maximum frame rate of 60fps, providing smooth motion in videos. However, the NEX-5N lacks built-in time-lapse functionality. Comparing the NEX-5N’s video capabilities to modern cameras, it falls short in some aspects. Nowadays, many cameras feature 4K resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. The NEX-5N’s Full HD resolution and lack of time-lapse features make it less competitive in the current market. Despite these limitations, the Sony NEX-5N still delivers decent video quality and smooth motion with its 60fps frame rate. However, for those seeking the latest video features, there are more advanced options available. | |
Video ⓘIndicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  Yes |
Max video resolution ⓘThe best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full 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 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 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. | No |
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. | MP4 |
Features54/100 | |
About the FeaturesThe Sony NEX-5N features a score of 54/100. Its 3-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 920,000 dots offers a clear and interactive display. The flip screen enhances the user experience by allowing various angles for capturing photos and videos. However, the camera does not include GPS, WIFI, or Bluetooth capabilities. In today’s market, the lack of connectivity options puts the NEX-5N at a disadvantage compared to other cameras. Many modern cameras come with GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth, enabling easy sharing and geotagging of photos. The NEX-5N’s features, although satisfactory, do not meet the expectations of current consumers. Despite its limitations, the Sony NEX-5N remains a reliable choice for basic photography and videography needs. Its touchscreen and flip screen add convenience to the user experience. However, potential buyers should consider the camera’s lack of connectivity features 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. | No |
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. |  Yes |
GPS ⓘGPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. | No |
Weather sealing ⓘWeather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. | No |
| Screen type | LCD |
Touch screen ⓘTouchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  Yes |
| Screen size | 3" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 9200001150001500000 |
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. |  Yes |
Live view ⓘLive View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  Yes |
Wi-Fi ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. | No |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. | No |
Storage & Battery27/100 | |
About the Storage & BatteryThe Sony NEX-5N receives a storage and battery score of 27/100. The camera has one memory card slot, compatible with SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards. While it offers multiple card options, a single slot limits storage capacity compared to modern cameras with dual slots. The NEX-5N’s battery life is 460 shots per charge, using the NPFW50 battery type. This battery life is lower than many current cameras, which often exceed 500 shots per charge. Additionally, the camera lacks USB charging, a common feature in today’s market. Considering these specifications, the Sony NEX-5N’s storage and battery capabilities fall short in comparison to more recent camera models. | |
| Memory card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo |
| Dual memory card slots | No |
| Battery type | NPFW50 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 460 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | No |