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Sony NEX-5 Specs and Scores

Optics
Features
Storage & Battery
Sony NEX-5
49%
General
49%
Price
Brand
Sony
Model
NEX-5
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2010
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
May 01, 2010
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony NEX-5 earns a score of 49/100 in our evaluation. This mirrorless camera, announced on May 1, 2010, and released the same year, entered the market with a launch price of $650. Measuring 111 x 59 x 38mm and weighing 287g (0.63lbs), the NEX-5 offers a compact and lightweight design. However, considering the advancements in camera technology since its release, the NEX-5’s specifications may not be as competitive in today’s market.

Sony NEX-5 Overview and Optics

The Sony NEX-5 receives a score of 55/100 for its optics. This camera has a 14.16-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and a Bionz processor, providing a DXOMARK sensor score of 69. Equipped with a Sony E lens mount and image stabilisation, it offers a shooting speed of 7 frames per second and a 3:2 aspect ratio.

Comparing these specifications to current market standards, the NEX-5’s 14.16-megapixel resolution is lower than many contemporary cameras. However, its APS-C sensor size remains popular and widely used. The camera’s shooting speed of 7 frames per second is adequate for casual photography but may be insufficient for capturing fast-paced action or sports.

The Sony NEX-5 may not be a leader in today’s market, but it still offers decent optics for casual photographers. Its image stabilisation and Sony E lens mount compatibility are valuable features. However, those seeking higher resolution and faster shooting speeds should consider alternative options.

Optics
Optics
55%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
14.16 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4592 x 3056 px
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 23.4 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
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.
7 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
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
Minimum ISO (Native)
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
200
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.
12,800
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.
200
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.
12800
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
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
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.
187
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.
None

Sony NEX-5 Video Performance

The Sony NEX-5 lacks video functionality. This camera does not record videos.

Video
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
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.

Sony NEX-5 Features and Benefits

The feature score for the Sony NEX-5 stands at 41 out of 100. Among its specifications, it boasts a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 920,000 dots. Although it lacks a touchscreen, it compensates with a flip screen that allows for versatile shooting angles. However, the camera does not include modern connectivity options such as GPS, WIFI, or Bluetooth.

In today’s market, the Sony NEX-5’s specifications may not be as competitive as newer models. The absence of wireless connectivity and GPS may limit its appeal to those who prioritize convenience and connectivity. The flip screen is a useful feature, but the lack of a touchscreen may not satisfy users accustomed to intuitive touch controls.

Despite its limitations, the Sony NEX-5 still offers a solid performance in its class. While it may not be the top choice for those seeking the latest features, it remains a reliable option for photographers who value simplicity and ease of use.

Features
Features
41%
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
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"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
920,000 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 NEX-5 Storage and Battery

The Sony NEX-5 receives a storage and battery score of 21/100. This camera has only one memory card slot and accepts SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards. In today’s market, multiple memory card slots are preferred for more storage capacity and flexibility.

The battery life of the NEX-5 is 330 shots, which is lower than the average battery life of modern cameras. The camera uses an NP-FW50 battery type, which is common among Sony cameras. However, it lacks USB charging, a feature that is increasingly important for on-the-go photographers.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony NEX-5’s storage and battery capabilities fall short when compared to contemporary camera models.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
21%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
NP-FW50
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
330 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
69%
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.'
22.2 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.'
12.2 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'
796
Scores
User Scores

Sony NEX-5 Alternatives

Do you want to know how the Sony NEX-5 compares to its competitors? Have a look at the most popular comparisons for this camera below:

Sony NEX-5 photographed on a colored background

Sony NEX-5 FAQ

Does the Sony NEX-5 Have Built-in Image Stabilization?

Yes, the Sony NEX-5 features built-in image stabilization, which helps reduce blur and improve image sharpness in handheld shooting situations.

Does the Sony NEX-5 Support 4K Video Recording?

No, the Sony NEX-5 does not support 4K video recording. It can, however, record videos in Full HD 1080p resolution.

What Size Sensor Does The Sony NEX-5 Have?

The Sony NEX-5 is equipped with an APS-C sized sensor, which is larger than most compact cameras and provides better image quality and low-light performance.

Does the Sony NEX-5 Have a Dual Memory Card Slot?

No, the Sony NEX-5 has a single memory card slot, which supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards for storage.

Does the Sony NEX-5 Have a Touch Screen?

No, the Sony NEX-5 does not feature a touch screen. It has a 3-inch tiltable LCD screen for composing shots and navigating menus.

Does the Sony NEX-5 Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

The Sony NEX-5 does not have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity for wireless sharing or remote control of the camera.

Does the Sony NEX-5 Have GPS?

No, the Sony NEX-5 does not have a built-in GPS feature for geotagging images.

Is the Sony NEX-5 Weather Sealed?

No, the Sony NEX-5 is not weather sealed, so it is not recommended for use in harsh weather conditions without proper protection.

Does the Sony NEX-5 Have a Built-in Flash?

No, the Sony NEX-5 does not have a built-in flash, but it comes with an external flash that can be attached to the camera’s accessory shoe.

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