Back in 2010, Sony released a camera that shook things up — the Sony NEX-5. Ultra-compact, mirrorless, and packing an APS-C sensor, it aimed to bridge the gap between bulky DSLRs and point-and-shoots. Over a decade later, a lot of photographers and camera enthusiasts still talk about it. But how does this camera hold up today?
In this Sony NEX-5 review, we’ll revisit its features, see how it compares to modern entry-level cameras, and explore whether it can still earn a spot in your kit, especially if you’re a beginner, vintage lens fan, or just curious about classic mirrorless tech that has aged surprisingly well.
Let’s go!
Key Features
- Max resolution 4592 x 3056
- Effective pixels 14.2 megapixels
- Sensor size APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)
- Sensor type CMOS
- ISO Auto, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800
- Lens mount Compatible with E-mount lenses
- Articulated LCD Tilts upward ~80° for waist-level shooting
- Screen dots 920k-dot LCD
- Max shutter speed 1/4000 sec
- Video Full HD 1080i/p in AVCHD (MPEG-4/H.264)
- Storage types SD/ SDHC/SDXC
- USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
- Weight 287g (with battery and memory card)
Design
The NEX-5 comes with a 14.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor, leveraging Sony’s Exmor technology to deliver impressive detail and dynamic range for its era, which rivaled bulkier DSLRs of its time. This 23.5 x 15.6 mm sensor (standard APS-C size for Sony’s NEX/Alpha series) means that you will get decent low-light performance and shallow depth-of-field capabilities, which were uncommon in compact cameras of the early 2010s and will still do the job today.
Plus, with an ultra-compact body (110.8 x 58.8 x 38.2 mm, weighing just 287g with battery) and a minimalist, magnesium alloy-reinforced design, you have good portability without sacrificing ergonomic handling—evident in its tactile controls and subtly textured grip.
For the battery, its NP-FW50 battery offers a modest CIPA rating of 330 shots per charge (below modern standards), but you can extend shooting sessions via USB-powered solutions or portable power banks, a workaround that I am sure you know about. In addition, connectivity includes mini HDMI and USB 2.0 ports, sufficient for its era sure, but I’d say it’s lacking contemporary features like Wi-Fi or NFC. So, build quality remains a standout, with a robust yet lightweight polycarbonate-magnesium chassis that resists wear. This makes this camera a durable choice for travel and daily use even years after its release.
Image Quality
If we compare it to current entry-level cameras, the Sony NEX-5’s image quality still remains competitive, thanks to its 14.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor In well-lit conditions, its 12-bit RAW files retain dynamic range (~12 stops) comparable to newer APS-C models, though modern cameras like the Sony a6100 edge ahead with 14-bit processing and refined BIONZ X processors. For low-light performance, it is acceptable up to ISO 3200-6400, but noise becomes pronounced beyond this range, lacking the multi-frame noise reduction or dual-gain sensors of newer systems.
Additionally, The NEX-5’s Sony “Standard” color profile delivers pleasing, slightly warm tones which are ideal for portraits and landscapes, though modern Alpha cameras offer Real-Time Tracking and HLG/HEIF support for enhanced accuracy and dynamic range. Also, its RAW flexibility allows for extensive post-processing (Adobe Lightroom/Capture One still supports its files), but its Bayer filter sensor lacks the resolution and low-light finesse of today’s BSI (backside-illuminated) designs.
This means that you will get the optimal results in controlled lighting or vintage-style photography because the slight noise grain and softer edges add character.
Lens Compatibility
The NEX-5 boasts native support for Sony E-mount lenses, a system that has grown into one of the most extensive mirrorless ecosystems, with over 70 first- and third-party options still available today. You have affordable classics like the Sony 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS ($150–$200 used) or Sigma’s Contemporary primes (e.g., 19mm f/2.8) that remain staples for budget shooters.
However, while you can use modern lenses like the Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 OSS on the NEX-5, you should know that their advanced autofocus (AF-C/tracking) and aperture control are hampered by the NEX-5’s contrast-detect-only AF and lack of touchscreen/tethering support.
Third-party adapters (e.g., Metabones Speed Booster or Techart LM-EA7) enable seamless pairing with Leica M, Canon FD, or Nikon F vintage glass, though manual focus and aperture adjustments are required. Actually, some forums show projects of photographers who paired the NEX-5 with Soviet-era Helios 44-2 or Pentax Super Takumar lenses for dreamy bokeh and retro flares.
So, for 2025’s budget-conscious creators, a $500–$800 kit (body + 2–3 lenses) can deliver distinct character, though newer bodies like the Sony a5100 offer better AF and 4K at a slight premium.
Plus, you can see the NEX-5 as a way to enter the Sony ecosystem. This way you can get this camera at around $100 and invest more in lenses. Why? Well, let’s look at it this way.
Camera technology evolved a lot in the last ten years (just compare NEX-5 to something like A9 III), but lens technology didn’t develop that much. This means that you can invest in lenses now, and still use them for years to come, and with an ecosystem like Sony’s, for both lenses and mirrorless cameras, you have a lot of glass and cameras to choose from once you want to upgrade.
Menu System
Well, as you navigate the NEX-5’s menu system, you will see a hierarchical, text-heavy interface. A menu that can feel archaic compared to today’s icon-driven, touch-enabled UIs like Sony’s “Quick Navi” or Fujifilm’s tactile dials. Sure, you can customize it via “Function” button shortcuts, but settings like video modes or bracketing require deep dives into submenus, which is a pain for a hybrid shooter.
For the Autofocus performance, though groundbreaking in 2010 with 25 contrast-detect points, it now lags behind modern phase-detect/Real-Time Tracking systems; The AF struggles with fast-paced action (e.g., sports or wildlife), achieving only 0.5 fps in AF-C versus the 11 fps of Sony’s a6100.
Additionally, this camera’s 2.3 fps burst speed and 10-frame JPEG buffer (or 3 RAW) feel modest next to entry-level rivals like the Canon R50 (15 fps), with operational lag made worse by slower Class 4 SD cards (max supported).
Plus, this camera misses modern conveniences like touch-screen focus dragging, Wi-Fi transfer, or Real-Time Eye AF, which demand workarounds like zone focusing for street photography or Sony’s optional FDA-EV1S optical viewfinder for manual precision.
Yet, its focus peaking (post-firmware update) and adaptable lens ecosystem will help you embrace slower, and intentional workflows.
Video
Let’s be honest here, the Sony NEX-5 wasn’t built with modern content creators in mind. But for its time, it packed some impressive video features. You see, The NEX-5 gives you two video recording options:
- AVCHD format: Records at 1080/60i or 50i (interlaced), depending on your region, at a bitrate of 17 Mbps.
- MP4 format: Records at 1440×1080/30p or 25p, with a lower bitrate of 12 Mbps.
However, there is a catch. Even though it says “60i,” this isn’t true 60fps. It’s interlaced, which means you’re actually getting something closer to 30p in how it looks and behaves.
What about the 24p that gives that cinematic feel? Sadly, the original NEX-5 doesn’t offer it. That feature will come later with the NEX-5N. Plus, if you were hoping for smooth 60p footage, that’s off the table, too.
Another downside, like many older cameras, is the 29-minute limit on video clips due to FAT32 storage constraints. On top of that, overheating can happen, especially during longer sessions in warm conditions. you can push it close to the limit without issues, but it’s something to keep in mind.
In addition, if you decide to shoot video with this camera, you might want to know the problems you could face while recording audio. The Sony NEX-5 includes a mono internal microphone, and while it works, don’t expect studio-quality sound. Plus, You’ll need a proprietary Sony adapter to use an external mic since there’s no standard 3.5mm input.
So, you might say this camera won’t work for video, and you will be right except for a category of filmmakers: creators chasing a retro aesthetic or experimenting with manual/vintage lenses. If you are into that, the NEX-5 has a unique charm. It delivers 8-bit 4:2:0 color, has a compact footprint, and fits perfectly on lightweight gimbals for simple setups or lo-fi YouTube content.
But, if you’re after sharp 4K footage or advanced audio, this camera won’t cut it.
Pros & Cons
Let’s combine everything I mentioned into this pros and cons list to bring it home:
Pros
- Compact, lightweight design: Magnesium-alloy body (287g) with a pocketable profile when paired with the 16mm f/2.8 pancake lens.
- Good image quality: 14.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor delivers DSLR-like detail and dynamic range, outperforming most contemporaries in its class.
- Strong low-light performance: Usable ISO up to 3200–6400, with noise remaining manageable for its era.
- Versatile E-mount system: Native compatibility with Sony E-mount lenses and adaptability for vintage/third-party lenses via adapters (e.g., Canon FD, Leica M).
- Tilting 3″ LCD: High-resolution 921k-dot screen tilts 80° upward/45° downward for flexible shooting angles.
- Creative features: Sweep Panorama, Auto HDR, and Handheld Twilight modes for experimental photography.
- Full HD video: 1080i/p AVCHD recording with continuous autofocus (a rarity in 2010) and external mic support via accessory terminal.
- Durable build: Magnesium-reinforced chassis withstands wear, maintaining reliability years later.
Cons
- Outdated menu system: Text-heavy, nested interface with limited customization; critical settings (ISO, WB) buried in menus.
- Slow contrast-detect AF: 25-point system struggles with fast action; no phase detection (unlike modern hybrids).
- No in-body stabilization (IBIS): Relies on lens-based OSS, leaving primes like the 16mm f/2.8 unstabilized.
- Dated video specs: 1080i/p max resolution with 29-minute recording limits; lacks 4K, log profiles, or manual exposure controls.
- Missing modern conveniences: No touchscreen, Wi-Fi, USB charging, or hotshoe (proprietary accessory port only).
- Ergonomic shortcomings: Minimal physical controls (no mode dial/command wheels); awkward grip balance with larger lenses.
- Battery limitations: NP-FW50 battery rated for 330 shots; no USB charging support.
- Audio constraints: External mics require a proprietary adapter; no 3.5mm input.
Final Thoughts
While we certainly can’t compare The Sony NEX-5 with modern cameras in terms of technical specifications, its combination of a still-capable APS-C sensor, compact size, and extremely affordable price point gives it a unique position in today’s market.
So, for photography students, hobbyists on tight budgets, or even experienced photographers looking for a lightweight backup body, this camera still offers good value, even with its limitations. You can consider them as creative constraints to improve your fundamental photography skills.
That being said, while I wouldn’t recommend it as your only camera if you plan to use it for professional work, there’s something simple and refreshing about shooting with this classic mirrorless camera.
Remember: The best camera is the one you use confidently to tell your story!
