Nikon’s D5100 is based around a DX-format 16.2-megapixel CMOS picture sensor as well as an image processing (EXPEED 2) like the one in D7000. D5100 is offering a good quality of images and that too in a body that is more affordable & approachable.
Nikon has made a considerable amount of changes in D5100 and has thrown in a few unique features as well from the DSLR lineup. D5100 is Nikon’s 1st SLR that includes an HDR (in-camera) imaging capability. Furthermore, Nikon has added a couple of new Special Effect modes that are applicable in both movie & still capture. There are a number of selections available in effects, such as the mode for Night Vision that allows the person to shoot at ISO sensitivity up till 102,400 equivalents.
Key Features: Nikon D5100
- DX-format 16.2 megapixel CMOS sensor
- 3D tracking with 11 AF points
- A 3.0″ LCD, Side-articulated monitor (920,000 dots)
- An IS0 range of 100-6400
- HD movies (720p, 1080p, or WVGA)
- Continuous shooting of 4 fps
- Effects (In-camera) that filter in both video as well as still modes
On the other hand, Sony with its NEX-7 is particularly targeting the advanced users who wish for a camera that has key specifications that would be no less than the ones on an enthusiast’s wish list. The NEX-7 has an APS-C 24MP CMOS sensor; it enables a 1080p60 true video recording that is shared with SLT-A77. Sony has added an EVF into NEX-7’s compact body, there’s a dot OLED (2.4M) unit that happens to be the highest resolution for stills in a camera, there’s the eye sensor meant for automatic switching along with a rear LCD.
Specification Highlights: Sony NEX-7
- It has a 2.4M dot Built-in OLED EVF along with an eye sensor
- A CMOS sensor 24MP APS-C (this is shared with SLT A-65 & A-77)
- It is a ISO 100-16000 (In Auto 100-1600)
- Electronic shutter first-curtain (this cuts the response time – 100ms to 20ms)
- Tilting screen (rear)
- 1080p60 HD ‘AVCHD Progressive’ recording for movies with a stereo mic (built-in)
- User interface- three dial
- Has a flash that is Built in & a Alpha hot shoe
- A remote control (Infra-red) receiver
- Has a input socket for a Microphone
Here is a detailed comparison of Nikon D5100 vs Sony NEX-7:
The trump card for Nikon D5100 happens to be its image quality….it is a sure shot winner! If we talk of reasons to buy a D5100, then here are a few reasons:
- Amazing image quality
- A flip-out screen which is handy for movies
- Low noise even at high ISO (1183 ISO)
- It has a very wide dynamic range (13.6 EV)
- It has an in-camera HDR that successfully combines multiple exposure
- Continuous movie focus which makes it really easy when you are trying to get an in-focus movie
Coming on to Sony NEX-7 now….here are a few reasons why one should pick the NEX-7:
- The image quality is great
- High ISO & light sensitivity (16000 ISO)
- Has a high true resolution of 24 MP
- The size is really small and it is compact (111x 59 x 38 mm)
- The dynamic range is wide (13,4 EV)
- Offers continuous, rapid fire shooting (10 fps)
Nikon D5100: Advantages
- Autofocus is faster and helps capture candid moments with ease.
- Has a longer battery life and offers 50 percent more shots/battery charge
- A low & light performance, there is low noise even @ high ISO
- The D5100 has a optical viewfinder that helps save battery life & is more detailed at the same time
Sony NEX-7: Advantages
- It has a focus motor for the lens that is built-in and this auto focuses with every autofocus lens
- The size is significantly smaller & so it’s more handy
- It has a much higher & better true resolution which helps you in capturing about 50% more details in the photographs
- The light sensitivity is much better (1/3 f-stops)
- You can even take a 3d photo and it will combine multiple pictures to give you a 3d image
- It can create an in-camera panorama as it stitches multiple pictures together and gives a wider perspective
- It shoots faster & offers continuous shooting (2.5 times faster)
- It is significantly thinner (2.1 times thinner)
- The weight is much lighter (about 40% lighter)
- It offers much better depth in color
Check Detailed Specs of Sony Nex-7 Here