Introduction

Here, we’re taking a look at two of the most popular entry-level mirrorless models, the Sony NEX-C3 and NEX-5N. Both released in the summer of 2011, these cameras are basically DSLRs crammed into chunky Cyber-shot bodies. But the NEX-5N has some higher-end features like 1080p video, faster burst shooting, and a touchscreen. It also costs at least $100 extra. Is that enough to justify the extra cost?

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To read our in-depth, hands-on review of the Sony NEX-C3, click here.
To read our in-depth, hands-on review of the Sony NEX-5N, click here.

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Image Quality

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As far as we can tell, the NEX-C3 and NEX-5N use a similar, if not the same 16.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which is probably the same chip found in highly regarded cameras like the Nikon D7000 and Pentax K-5. It’s a serious piece of silicon. Both cameras’ image quality scores are just about neck and neck, from color and noise through chromatic aberration and dynamic range.

Winner: Tie

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Design & User Experience

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The only notable design difference between the two cameras is the NEX-5N’s touchscreen. The tap-to-focus feature and virtual keys are helpful, but it’s basically a trendy add-on that doesn’t really improve the user experience. Otherwise, the C3 and 5N chasses have similar layouts with similarly mediocre handling. Both offer big, high-res, tilting LCDs, which are excellent. The assignable soft-keys are an acquired taste for enthusiasts, but generally clever and useful.

Then there’s the internal stuff. The 5N has a faster continuous drive and offers 1080p video instead of the C3’s 720p. If the two cameras really do use the same sensor, it looks like Sony is purposely gimping the C3’s potential with a slower sensor so that they can sell more 5N units, ostensibly at a higher margin. That’s business, but the C3 could’ve been even better.

Winner: NEX-5N

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Conclusion

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Two similar cameras separated by $100, what to do? We don’t care much for the touchscreen, but the NEX-5N does offer faster bursts and full HD video, which are both genuinely useful features. If you shoot a lot of video and a lot of action, it’s worth the extra $100. But if video is only a minor concern (and the C3’s 720p is still solid), and most of your subjects move at a medium pace or slower, then save the cash and pick the C3.

Overall Winner: NEX-5N for action and video, NEX-C3 otherwise

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