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Hands-On: Sony NEX-3 and NEX-5
Sony's version of the compact camera body with interchangeable lenses concept comes in the form of its new NEX-3 and NEX-5 cameras. Here are our first impressions ...
Renaud Labracherie
Updated: May 12, 2010
Updated: May 12, 2010
After Panasonic and Olympus with their Micro Four-Thirds system, and Samsung's NX, another electronics giants has launched a range of compact cameras with interchangeable lens.
Sony's NEX range will have a new APS-C sensor that is the same size as those found on some of its SLRs and an E lens mount allowing flexibility over your choice of optical equipment.
We've had a chance to play with both of the new models, the Sony NEX-3 and NEX-5. Here are our first impressions ...
To say we were surprised by our first contact with the NEX cameras would be an understatement: they're both very, very small. Next to a traditional point-and-shoot compact like the Sony HX5V, the NEX-5 doesn't look out of place. Quite the opposite, in fact: both cameras look pretty similar. According to the official stats, without a lens, the camera body measures 110.8 x 55.8 x 38.2 mm, just a tiny bit longer and thicker than the HX5V at 103 x 58 x 29 mm.
The external dimensions might be similar, but the same can't be said of the interior: the NEX-5 has an APS-C sensor measuring 23.5 x 15.6 mm, which makes the 1/2.4'' 6 x 4.6 mm sensor found on the HX5V and plenty of other compacts look absolutely minuscule.
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So just how did they make it so small? Well, like in micro-four-thirds and NX cameras, the reflex mirror has been removed. That means there's no mirror cage and that back focus is reduced. In fact, in the NEX, back focus is cut from 44.5 mm to just 18 mm! The diameter of the bayonet mount (now known as an 'E-type' mount) has also been downsized to 58.9 mm, compared with 62.6 mm for an Alpha mount. However, in the end, and in spite of this reduction in size, the E-type lens mount still looks pretty imposing on the super-small NEX-5, and the metal mount actually overshoots the edges of the camera, giving it a very particular look. With the 18-55 mm lens attached, the lens looks out of proportion with the camera body. It's even slightly reminiscent of the Sony F828 and its infamous flip-down lens. Perhaps that could help the NEX range score points among nostalgic users? Another interesting feature is that since the button for releasing the lens mount is located to the left, you can unlock the lens with your left hand while keeping firm hold of the camera with you right hand.
Handling
In spite of the NEX-5's small body, it's really quite comfortable to hold, notably thanks to a handle, which although small (you can hold the camera with just three fingers), is well designed and has a decent grip. The shutter release button can be easily accessed and there's a separate on/off button too. The top of the camera is fairly sparse, just like the rest of the camera body! You'll find two microphones, a picture playback button and a button that starts video recording.
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You'll also notice what looks like a little compartment on the top of the camera. Flip open the plastic lid and you'll find a Sony-specific accessories hot-shoe for connecting the flash (supplied with the camera), an optical viewfinder (FDA-SV1, for the 16 mm, £160) or a stereo microphone.
The reverse of the NEX-5 is mostly taken up by the superb, high-quality 3-inch (7.5 cm) LCD. It has a resolution of 921,600 pixels and has a 16:9 aspect ratio. Viewing angles are wide and moving images flow smoothly. In low light, the display becomes more jumpy and noticeably grainier, but the NEX-5 remains perfectly functional. Plus, in bright, sunny conditions, the screen brightness can be increased manually to up to 700 cd/m2.
Aside from its excellent quality, the screen has another trick up its sleeve: it's mounted on a hinge! It can therefore be flipped out 135° either upwards or downwards. This is a fantastic technical achievement for Sony, as both the screen and hinge are incredibly slim. It's a great idea and it's useful for taking all kinds of original shots (e.g. at waist height, parallel to the ground, above a crowd etc.). Personally, I have a bit of a soft spot for swivel screens, which although less slim and sleek than this flip-out version, do somehow feel more robust. A full swivel screen also offers even greater freedom for lining up tricky shots like group photos or self-portraits.
The Sony NEX-5 has few controls and buttons. At the rear, you'll find a scroll wheel for fast navigation through menus and options, with a central button to select your choices. Apart from that, there are just two buttons for controlling the selected function, and that's it. For the rest, you have to use the internal menus to navigate through the well-designed and easy-to-use graphic user interface. Sony's NEX range is therefore clearly aimed at consumers rather than professionals, and these cameras will almost certainly spend most of their time in Auto Intelligent mode (automatic scene selection). That said, the NEX actually does a pretty good job in AI mode! The camera can be easily switched into A or S priority mode so you can play around with the aperture or the shutter speed. It even remembers which mode you left it in when you switch it off. Once you've selected the mode, the scroll wheel allows you to adjust the settings quickly and easily. However, if you want to set the ISO sensitivity, or change the light metering mode, you have no choice but to use the internal menus, which can quickly become annoying. Note that the NEX doesn't memories exposure settings: a feature certain photographers find particularly useful.
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So are Sony's NEX cameras really smaller and less cumbersome than other compact cameras with interchangeable lenses? Although the body of the NEX cameras is incredibly compact, the lenses certainly aren't. So with the 16 mm f/2.8 lens (a 24 mm, hurrah!), the NEX-5 barely fits into a large pocket, and handling becomes much more complicated with an 18-55 mm lens attached. It's similar to the Samsung NX10 in this respect. So for the moment, it looks like the micro-four-thirds format does have a slight advantage, as the lenses tend to be smaller, making the camera + lens more compact on the whole.
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How are the NEX-5 and NEX-3 different?
For the moment, there are just two models in the Sony NEX range: the NEX-3 and NEX-5. At first glance, there looks to be very little difference between them. In fact, it's only when you pick them up and start playing around with them that you start to notice the differences. The NEX-3 is actually slightly taller (the lens mount doesn't overshoot the camera body) and the handle is also much less deep. This in turn makes the camera a bit less easy to grip on to. The finish is also different, as the NEX-3 has a polycarbonate body, whereas the NEX-5 is made from magnesium. That makes for a slight difference in feel but it's nothing drastic. Finally, the on/off button on the NEX-3 is located around the shutter-release button. Otherwise, the NEX-3 is exactly the same as the NEX-5, with the same sensor and the same screen. The only real difference is the video mode, as the NEX-3 films in 720p (MPeg-4) whereas the NEX-5 films in 1080i (AVCHD).
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A large sensor but no stabilisation
Although a compact design is a great feature, the large sensor-size is almost certainly the main selling point of compact cameras with interchangeable lenses. NEX cameras feature an APS-C sensor, as found in consumer and professional SLRs, which is much larger than even the biggest type of sensor found in compact digital cameras (2/3"). The photodiodes are larger too (approx. 5.1 µm) and therefore more sensitive. Electronic noise is also generally handled better.
For its NEX cameras, Sony has developed a new range of APS-C sensors (23.5 x 15.6 mm) with over 14 million pixels. Unfortunately, they're not backlit CMOS sensors, but these Exmors are certainly new, as they make video recording possible on NEX cameras, as well as on future Sony SLRs.
The models we're handling here aren't final versions, and could still be subject to a few changes prior to release. However, we thought it was worth taking a few test photos over the whole sensitivity range (200-12800 ISO), although we can't publish them as the firmware is still in development. The results were already pretty interesting too, with noise well controlled up to 3200 ISO and a usable 6400 ISO setting. We're keen to get our hands on the first finished models, though, so we can confirm our first impressions.
A large sensor also allows you to play around with the depth of field, which is much more difficult, if not impossible, with the sensors found in compact cameras.
In order to save space and probably to keep costs down too, these first NEX cameras don't have any kind of sensor stabilisation system, a feature that's one of the strongest selling points of Sony SLRs. In fact, it could well prove to be a bit of a sensitive subject for Sony after the firm heavily promoted the integrated stabilisation system in its Alpha cameras. What's more, not all of the E-mount lenses will be stabilised either. The 16 mm f/2.8 lens, for example, isn't stabilised, nor are any of the Alpha lenses currently available. Shame.
The range of lenses
Sony will initially be releasing two lenses for the NEX range: an 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 stabilised lens and a 16 mm f/2.8 lens. The latter comes in the compact 'pancake' format, and is equivalent to a genuine wide-angle of 24 mm (nice!). Sometime in August an 18-200 mm lens will also be launched, and for the moment it looks like just three lenses will be available. For consumer rather than professional use, the three lenses will be sufficient, even if a proper macro lens would have completed the range nicely. Lens converters will be available to turn the 16 mm f/2.8 into a fisheye (VCL-ECF1, 10 mm, approx. £115) or an ultra-wide-angle (VCL-ECU1, 12 mm approx. £115).
There'll be an adapter ring too (LA-EA1 approx. £150) for using Alpha lenses with NEX camera bodies. Unfortunately, this ring does make you lose the autofocus function (you'll have to focus manually) and none of the Alpha lenses are stabilised.
Autofocus and noise levels
As there's no internal mirror, the camera designers have no choice but to use an autofocus system that detects contrast on the main sensor. These systems are renowned for being slower than the phase detection system used in SLRs. However, much progress has been made in the field, and the autofocus systems found in compacts with interchangeable lenses now work well enough to rival those found in entry-level SLRs.
In NEX cameras with the 16 mm f/2.8 lens, the autofocus is very fast, but don't forget that this isn't the final version of the camera. With the 18-55 mm lens in telephoto mode, it's a little slower. Once again, we'd need to test the final version before drawing any real conclusions, but our first impressions are actually quite reassuring. For softer, lower lighting, both NEX cameras feature AF-assist lamps.
There are 25 autofocus points in Auto mode and you can manually select a focusing zone over the whole scene (flexible spot).
The lens motorisation system is very quiet and has been specially developed not to be picked up by the microphones when you're recording videos.
However, NEX cameras aren't the quietest around, as the sound graph below shows.
In fact, NEX cameras still feature a fairly noisy mechanical shutter, so don't count on these cameras if you want to take photos discreetly. Plus, the new vibration system used to clean the sensor makes an unpleasant kind of hissing noise each time you turn the camera off.
In Sony's SLR cameras, it's the integrated stabilisation mechanism that vibrates to shake off dust and no separate system is required. Plus, on the NEX test models we received, we couldn't fully switch off the LCD (although you can attach an optical viewfinder) so the camera is far from discreet when taking photos in the dark.
Video and other functions
Like pretty much any new compact, NEX cameras film in high definition. This is, however, a first for Sony APS-C sensors. The NEX-3 records videos in 720p (MMPEG-4, 9 Mbps, 30 fps) whereas the higher-end NEX-5 films in 1080i (AVCHD). The 1080 format is interlaced (17 Mbps, 25 fps), and strangely enough, it doesn't appear to be possible to film in 720p, as the other resolution offered is 1440 x 1080 (MP4, 12 Mbps, 25 fps). This, again, is a feature that we'll have to double-check on a finished model. Sound is recorded in stereo (two microphones are located on the top of the camera, MPEG-4, AAC). The continuous focusing function works well and is quiet.
Exposure metering is based on a 49-zone metering matrix and exposure compensation allows you to adjust each metering point by +/- 2 IL. That's not much, but it's fairly typical. Exposure bracketing allows three successive shots. Both NEX models feature plenty of Sony's custom technology, like the D-Range Optimizer, which balances out denser areas of photos, and the auto HDR mode, which first made its appearance on the Alpha 550. This has been notably improved with a burst of three frames (rather than two in the SLR) at 150-millisecond intervals, each with a different exposure. The camera then automatically merges the shots. Sony's NEX cameras have a burst mode of 7 fps (without AF or light metering), which drops to 2.3 fps in standard mode for 16 JPEG shots or 7 RAW shots (the NEX can save photos as JPEG files or in a proprietary RAW format).
As with many of the latest compact cameras, the NEX features a Sweep Panorama Mode, in which the camera takes a sequence of photos and reassembles them into one panoramic shot with a maximum resolution of 12416 x 1856 pixels.
Connections include a standard USB output (thank you Sony!) and a mini-HDMI output. It's just a shame there's no headphones or microphone socket for the video mode. As with Sony's new range of compacts, NEX cameras are compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick cards. The move towards SD is therefore heading in the right direction. The memory card slot is located in the battery compartment on the underside of the camera: note that you won't be able to change the memory card with the camera mounted on a tripod. The 1080 mAh lithium battery is announced with an average life of 300 shots (in line with the CIPA standard) and you can keep an eye on the percentage of battery life remaining thanks to an icon on the LCD.
3D compatibility!
As you can see in the picture of the box below, the NEX will be Sony's first compact cameras capable of producing 3D images. However, we weren't able to test this function, as it will be integrated via a firmware update due for release in July (the NEX should be released in June). NEX cameras use the Sweep Panorama Mode to create 3D images, and you'll have to physically move the camera round so it can photograph the scene from different viewpoints. Pictures are then saved in the standard .MPO format which can be played back directly on Sony 3D TVs.
Prices & availability
Although Sony hasn't released official UK recommended retail prices, the following prices have been estimated for the brand's NEX cameras.
The NEX-3 will be available in silver, red or black with the 18-55 mm lens for £450-550.
The NEX-5 will be available in silver or black with the 18-55 mm lens for £550-600.
Both models will also be available bundled with the 16 mm lens or with both lenses (UK pricing TBC).
The 16mm f/2.8 pancake lens will be available separately for around £200-220.
The LA-EA1 adapter for Sony, Minolta and Konica Minolta AF lenses is expected to cost around £150 (note that the AF function will not be available when used with an NEX camera).
The ultra-wide-angle converter (VCL-ECU1) and fisheye converter (VCL-ECF1) are likely to cost around £115 each.
The NEX range is due to launch in June.
Our first impressions
After Panasonic and Samsung, another big-brand consumer electronics manufacturer is releasing a range of compact cameras with interchangeable lenses. Sony is set to launch into this new market segment with two incredibly compact cameras, which are clearly aimed at novice-to-intermediate users rather than experienced photographers. Sony's NEX cameras offer an interesting and innovative set of tech specs compared with models already on the market, with features including a Sweep Panorama mode, 3D picture capabilities, a 1080 HD video mode, a 3-inch flip-out screen and a fixed-focal-length wide-angle lens (16 mm f/2.8, equivalent to 24 mm in 24x36).
Both NEX cameras are very compact, and with the 16 mm pancake lens, they'll fit into a large pocket. In fact, the NEX-5 and NEX-3 have plenty of great features, and they're certainly technically superior to the Panasonic GF1, Olympus PEN cameras or the Samsung NX10. Although we'll have to wait until we handle the final models before confirming our impressions, the first tests we carried out with the NEX cameras were very encouraging. The autofocus, for example, was responsive (principally with the 16 mm f/2.8 lens) and very quiet. The APS-C-size sensor seems to take good photos up to 1600 and even 3200 ISO, and the flip-out LCD is of excellent quality. It's just a shame that Sony wasn't able to (or didn't want to) integrate a stabilisation system based on movement of the sensor, to help make it easier to line up shots with unusual lenses or with the 16 mm f/2.8 lens.
The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are consumer, rather than expert cameras. There are very few physical controls on either model, and these compacts have clearly been designed to be used in a fully automatic mode most of the time. It's always possible to switch the NEX into A or S priority mode and the scroll wheel then allows you the change the settings easily. However, using the internal menus to change the slightest option or setting quickly becomes tiresome. In fact, it's a shame Sony didn't decide to make an 'expert' version of its new compacts. Plus, I personally think that the ability to change the lens and the fixed focal range aren't exactly features that appeal to the general public. It's also difficult to understand why, for the moment at least, the NEX-5 and NEX-3 only have a 3x zoom, when certain compacts already out there can zoom up to 12x (Panasonic TZ10) or even 15x (Samsung WB650), as well as featuring a genuine macro mode.
The price, however, is a real selling point, as the NEX cameras should work out cheaper than competitors' equivalents. In fact, the price could well help make Sony's NEX cameras an attractive choice in this new market sector.
> Full spec sheets for the NEX-3 and NEX-5 are available on the Sony UK website
Sony's NEX range will have a new APS-C sensor that is the same size as those found on some of its SLRs and an E lens mount allowing flexibility over your choice of optical equipment.
We've had a chance to play with both of the new models, the Sony NEX-3 and NEX-5. Here are our first impressions ...
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To say we were surprised by our first contact with the NEX cameras would be an understatement: they're both very, very small. Next to a traditional point-and-shoot compact like the Sony HX5V, the NEX-5 doesn't look out of place. Quite the opposite, in fact: both cameras look pretty similar. According to the official stats, without a lens, the camera body measures 110.8 x 55.8 x 38.2 mm, just a tiny bit longer and thicker than the HX5V at 103 x 58 x 29 mm.
The external dimensions might be similar, but the same can't be said of the interior: the NEX-5 has an APS-C sensor measuring 23.5 x 15.6 mm, which makes the 1/2.4'' 6 x 4.6 mm sensor found on the HX5V and plenty of other compacts look absolutely minuscule.
With the 16 mm f/2.8 lens, the NEX-5 handles just like a compact
So just how did they make it so small? Well, like in micro-four-thirds and NX cameras, the reflex mirror has been removed. That means there's no mirror cage and that back focus is reduced. In fact, in the NEX, back focus is cut from 44.5 mm to just 18 mm! The diameter of the bayonet mount (now known as an 'E-type' mount) has also been downsized to 58.9 mm, compared with 62.6 mm for an Alpha mount. However, in the end, and in spite of this reduction in size, the E-type lens mount still looks pretty imposing on the super-small NEX-5, and the metal mount actually overshoots the edges of the camera, giving it a very particular look. With the 18-55 mm lens attached, the lens looks out of proportion with the camera body. It's even slightly reminiscent of the Sony F828 and its infamous flip-down lens. Perhaps that could help the NEX range score points among nostalgic users? Another interesting feature is that since the button for releasing the lens mount is located to the left, you can unlock the lens with your left hand while keeping firm hold of the camera with you right hand.
The Sony NEX-5, with E-type lens mount and 16 mm f/2.8 pancake lens.
Handling
In spite of the NEX-5's small body, it's really quite comfortable to hold, notably thanks to a handle, which although small (you can hold the camera with just three fingers), is well designed and has a decent grip. The shutter release button can be easily accessed and there's a separate on/off button too. The top of the camera is fairly sparse, just like the rest of the camera body! You'll find two microphones, a picture playback button and a button that starts video recording.
You'll also notice what looks like a little compartment on the top of the camera. Flip open the plastic lid and you'll find a Sony-specific accessories hot-shoe for connecting the flash (supplied with the camera), an optical viewfinder (FDA-SV1, for the 16 mm, £160) or a stereo microphone.
The flash supplied with the camera has a guide number of 7, which should allow it to effectively reduce shadows and darkness in pictures taken into the light. A specially designed compartment in the case makes it easy to carry around, however, a screw-in flash still isn't as practical as a built-in flash.
The reverse of the NEX-5 is mostly taken up by the superb, high-quality 3-inch (7.5 cm) LCD. It has a resolution of 921,600 pixels and has a 16:9 aspect ratio. Viewing angles are wide and moving images flow smoothly. In low light, the display becomes more jumpy and noticeably grainier, but the NEX-5 remains perfectly functional. Plus, in bright, sunny conditions, the screen brightness can be increased manually to up to 700 cd/m2.
Aside from its excellent quality, the screen has another trick up its sleeve: it's mounted on a hinge! It can therefore be flipped out 135° either upwards or downwards. This is a fantastic technical achievement for Sony, as both the screen and hinge are incredibly slim. It's a great idea and it's useful for taking all kinds of original shots (e.g. at waist height, parallel to the ground, above a crowd etc.). Personally, I have a bit of a soft spot for swivel screens, which although less slim and sleek than this flip-out version, do somehow feel more robust. A full swivel screen also offers even greater freedom for lining up tricky shots like group photos or self-portraits.
I wonder how well that super-slim hinge will stand up to frequent use?
The NEX-5 has very few buttons and controls
The Sony NEX-5 has few controls and buttons. At the rear, you'll find a scroll wheel for fast navigation through menus and options, with a central button to select your choices. Apart from that, there are just two buttons for controlling the selected function, and that's it. For the rest, you have to use the internal menus to navigate through the well-designed and easy-to-use graphic user interface. Sony's NEX range is therefore clearly aimed at consumers rather than professionals, and these cameras will almost certainly spend most of their time in Auto Intelligent mode (automatic scene selection). That said, the NEX actually does a pretty good job in AI mode! The camera can be easily switched into A or S priority mode so you can play around with the aperture or the shutter speed. It even remembers which mode you left it in when you switch it off. Once you've selected the mode, the scroll wheel allows you to adjust the settings quickly and easily. However, if you want to set the ISO sensitivity, or change the light metering mode, you have no choice but to use the internal menus, which can quickly become annoying. Note that the NEX doesn't memories exposure settings: a feature certain photographers find particularly useful.
The Sony NEX-5 and the Samsung NX10 side by side.
These cameras have the same size sensor and the lens mount is almost identical, but the overall concept is totally different. The Samsung looks like a mini SLR with a good handle and a 'mock' prism system. It'll appeal to photographers looking for a 'serious' looking camera. On the other hand, Sony has reduced the size of its camera body so it looks just like a compact. It certainly won't put off novice users.
Two very different approaches: but which will prove more successful?
These cameras have the same size sensor and the lens mount is almost identical, but the overall concept is totally different. The Samsung looks like a mini SLR with a good handle and a 'mock' prism system. It'll appeal to photographers looking for a 'serious' looking camera. On the other hand, Sony has reduced the size of its camera body so it looks just like a compact. It certainly won't put off novice users.
Two very different approaches: but which will prove more successful?
So are Sony's NEX cameras really smaller and less cumbersome than other compact cameras with interchangeable lenses? Although the body of the NEX cameras is incredibly compact, the lenses certainly aren't. So with the 16 mm f/2.8 lens (a 24 mm, hurrah!), the NEX-5 barely fits into a large pocket, and handling becomes much more complicated with an 18-55 mm lens attached. It's similar to the Samsung NX10 in this respect. So for the moment, it looks like the micro-four-thirds format does have a slight advantage, as the lenses tend to be smaller, making the camera + lens more compact on the whole.
How are the NEX-5 and NEX-3 different?
For the moment, there are just two models in the Sony NEX range: the NEX-3 and NEX-5. At first glance, there looks to be very little difference between them. In fact, it's only when you pick them up and start playing around with them that you start to notice the differences. The NEX-3 is actually slightly taller (the lens mount doesn't overshoot the camera body) and the handle is also much less deep. This in turn makes the camera a bit less easy to grip on to. The finish is also different, as the NEX-3 has a polycarbonate body, whereas the NEX-5 is made from magnesium. That makes for a slight difference in feel but it's nothing drastic. Finally, the on/off button on the NEX-3 is located around the shutter-release button. Otherwise, the NEX-3 is exactly the same as the NEX-5, with the same sensor and the same screen. The only real difference is the video mode, as the NEX-3 films in 720p (MPeg-4) whereas the NEX-5 films in 1080i (AVCHD).
A large sensor but no stabilisation
Although a compact design is a great feature, the large sensor-size is almost certainly the main selling point of compact cameras with interchangeable lenses. NEX cameras feature an APS-C sensor, as found in consumer and professional SLRs, which is much larger than even the biggest type of sensor found in compact digital cameras (2/3"). The photodiodes are larger too (approx. 5.1 µm) and therefore more sensitive. Electronic noise is also generally handled better.
For its NEX cameras, Sony has developed a new range of APS-C sensors (23.5 x 15.6 mm) with over 14 million pixels. Unfortunately, they're not backlit CMOS sensors, but these Exmors are certainly new, as they make video recording possible on NEX cameras, as well as on future Sony SLRs.
The models we're handling here aren't final versions, and could still be subject to a few changes prior to release. However, we thought it was worth taking a few test photos over the whole sensitivity range (200-12800 ISO), although we can't publish them as the firmware is still in development. The results were already pretty interesting too, with noise well controlled up to 3200 ISO and a usable 6400 ISO setting. We're keen to get our hands on the first finished models, though, so we can confirm our first impressions.
A large sensor also allows you to play around with the depth of field, which is much more difficult, if not impossible, with the sensors found in compact cameras.
The 18-55 mm lens is stabilised (pictured left with the NEX-3), whereas the 16 mm lens isn't (pictured right with the NEX-5).
In order to save space and probably to keep costs down too, these first NEX cameras don't have any kind of sensor stabilisation system, a feature that's one of the strongest selling points of Sony SLRs. In fact, it could well prove to be a bit of a sensitive subject for Sony after the firm heavily promoted the integrated stabilisation system in its Alpha cameras. What's more, not all of the E-mount lenses will be stabilised either. The 16 mm f/2.8 lens, for example, isn't stabilised, nor are any of the Alpha lenses currently available. Shame.
The range of lenses
Sony will initially be releasing two lenses for the NEX range: an 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 stabilised lens and a 16 mm f/2.8 lens. The latter comes in the compact 'pancake' format, and is equivalent to a genuine wide-angle of 24 mm (nice!). Sometime in August an 18-200 mm lens will also be launched, and for the moment it looks like just three lenses will be available. For consumer rather than professional use, the three lenses will be sufficient, even if a proper macro lens would have completed the range nicely. Lens converters will be available to turn the 16 mm f/2.8 into a fisheye (VCL-ECF1, 10 mm, approx. £115) or an ultra-wide-angle (VCL-ECU1, 12 mm approx. £115).
There'll be an adapter ring too (LA-EA1 approx. £150) for using Alpha lenses with NEX camera bodies. Unfortunately, this ring does make you lose the autofocus function (you'll have to focus manually) and none of the Alpha lenses are stabilised.
Olympus 17 mm f/2.8 (34 mm in 24x36) pancake lens, NEX 16 mm f/2.8 (24 mm in 24x36) lens and NX 30 mm f/2 (45 mm in 24x36). The NEX has the advantage of a genuine wide-angle.
Autofocus and noise levels
As there's no internal mirror, the camera designers have no choice but to use an autofocus system that detects contrast on the main sensor. These systems are renowned for being slower than the phase detection system used in SLRs. However, much progress has been made in the field, and the autofocus systems found in compacts with interchangeable lenses now work well enough to rival those found in entry-level SLRs.
In NEX cameras with the 16 mm f/2.8 lens, the autofocus is very fast, but don't forget that this isn't the final version of the camera. With the 18-55 mm lens in telephoto mode, it's a little slower. Once again, we'd need to test the final version before drawing any real conclusions, but our first impressions are actually quite reassuring. For softer, lower lighting, both NEX cameras feature AF-assist lamps.
There are 25 autofocus points in Auto mode and you can manually select a focusing zone over the whole scene (flexible spot).
The lens motorisation system is very quiet and has been specially developed not to be picked up by the microphones when you're recording videos.
However, NEX cameras aren't the quietest around, as the sound graph below shows.
In fact, NEX cameras still feature a fairly noisy mechanical shutter, so don't count on these cameras if you want to take photos discreetly. Plus, the new vibration system used to clean the sensor makes an unpleasant kind of hissing noise each time you turn the camera off.
In Sony's SLR cameras, it's the integrated stabilisation mechanism that vibrates to shake off dust and no separate system is required. Plus, on the NEX test models we received, we couldn't fully switch off the LCD (although you can attach an optical viewfinder) so the camera is far from discreet when taking photos in the dark.
Video and other functions
Like pretty much any new compact, NEX cameras film in high definition. This is, however, a first for Sony APS-C sensors. The NEX-3 records videos in 720p (MMPEG-4, 9 Mbps, 30 fps) whereas the higher-end NEX-5 films in 1080i (AVCHD). The 1080 format is interlaced (17 Mbps, 25 fps), and strangely enough, it doesn't appear to be possible to film in 720p, as the other resolution offered is 1440 x 1080 (MP4, 12 Mbps, 25 fps). This, again, is a feature that we'll have to double-check on a finished model. Sound is recorded in stereo (two microphones are located on the top of the camera, MPEG-4, AAC). The continuous focusing function works well and is quiet.
Exposure metering is based on a 49-zone metering matrix and exposure compensation allows you to adjust each metering point by +/- 2 IL. That's not much, but it's fairly typical. Exposure bracketing allows three successive shots. Both NEX models feature plenty of Sony's custom technology, like the D-Range Optimizer, which balances out denser areas of photos, and the auto HDR mode, which first made its appearance on the Alpha 550. This has been notably improved with a burst of three frames (rather than two in the SLR) at 150-millisecond intervals, each with a different exposure. The camera then automatically merges the shots. Sony's NEX cameras have a burst mode of 7 fps (without AF or light metering), which drops to 2.3 fps in standard mode for 16 JPEG shots or 7 RAW shots (the NEX can save photos as JPEG files or in a proprietary RAW format).
As with many of the latest compact cameras, the NEX features a Sweep Panorama Mode, in which the camera takes a sequence of photos and reassembles them into one panoramic shot with a maximum resolution of 12416 x 1856 pixels.
Connections include a standard USB output (thank you Sony!) and a mini-HDMI output. It's just a shame there's no headphones or microphone socket for the video mode. As with Sony's new range of compacts, NEX cameras are compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick cards. The move towards SD is therefore heading in the right direction. The memory card slot is located in the battery compartment on the underside of the camera: note that you won't be able to change the memory card with the camera mounted on a tripod. The 1080 mAh lithium battery is announced with an average life of 300 shots (in line with the CIPA standard) and you can keep an eye on the percentage of battery life remaining thanks to an icon on the LCD.
3D compatibility!
As you can see in the picture of the box below, the NEX will be Sony's first compact cameras capable of producing 3D images. However, we weren't able to test this function, as it will be integrated via a firmware update due for release in July (the NEX should be released in June). NEX cameras use the Sweep Panorama Mode to create 3D images, and you'll have to physically move the camera round so it can photograph the scene from different viewpoints. Pictures are then saved in the standard .MPO format which can be played back directly on Sony 3D TVs.
Prices & availability
Although Sony hasn't released official UK recommended retail prices, the following prices have been estimated for the brand's NEX cameras.
The NEX-3 will be available in silver, red or black with the 18-55 mm lens for £450-550.
The NEX-5 will be available in silver or black with the 18-55 mm lens for £550-600.
Both models will also be available bundled with the 16 mm lens or with both lenses (UK pricing TBC).
The 16mm f/2.8 pancake lens will be available separately for around £200-220.
The LA-EA1 adapter for Sony, Minolta and Konica Minolta AF lenses is expected to cost around £150 (note that the AF function will not be available when used with an NEX camera).
The ultra-wide-angle converter (VCL-ECU1) and fisheye converter (VCL-ECF1) are likely to cost around £115 each.
The NEX range is due to launch in June.
Our first impressions
After Panasonic and Samsung, another big-brand consumer electronics manufacturer is releasing a range of compact cameras with interchangeable lenses. Sony is set to launch into this new market segment with two incredibly compact cameras, which are clearly aimed at novice-to-intermediate users rather than experienced photographers. Sony's NEX cameras offer an interesting and innovative set of tech specs compared with models already on the market, with features including a Sweep Panorama mode, 3D picture capabilities, a 1080 HD video mode, a 3-inch flip-out screen and a fixed-focal-length wide-angle lens (16 mm f/2.8, equivalent to 24 mm in 24x36).
Both NEX cameras are very compact, and with the 16 mm pancake lens, they'll fit into a large pocket. In fact, the NEX-5 and NEX-3 have plenty of great features, and they're certainly technically superior to the Panasonic GF1, Olympus PEN cameras or the Samsung NX10. Although we'll have to wait until we handle the final models before confirming our impressions, the first tests we carried out with the NEX cameras were very encouraging. The autofocus, for example, was responsive (principally with the 16 mm f/2.8 lens) and very quiet. The APS-C-size sensor seems to take good photos up to 1600 and even 3200 ISO, and the flip-out LCD is of excellent quality. It's just a shame that Sony wasn't able to (or didn't want to) integrate a stabilisation system based on movement of the sensor, to help make it easier to line up shots with unusual lenses or with the 16 mm f/2.8 lens.
The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are consumer, rather than expert cameras. There are very few physical controls on either model, and these compacts have clearly been designed to be used in a fully automatic mode most of the time. It's always possible to switch the NEX into A or S priority mode and the scroll wheel then allows you the change the settings easily. However, using the internal menus to change the slightest option or setting quickly becomes tiresome. In fact, it's a shame Sony didn't decide to make an 'expert' version of its new compacts. Plus, I personally think that the ability to change the lens and the fixed focal range aren't exactly features that appeal to the general public. It's also difficult to understand why, for the moment at least, the NEX-5 and NEX-3 only have a 3x zoom, when certain compacts already out there can zoom up to 12x (Panasonic TZ10) or even 15x (Samsung WB650), as well as featuring a genuine macro mode.
The price, however, is a real selling point, as the NEX cameras should work out cheaper than competitors' equivalents. In fact, the price could well help make Sony's NEX cameras an attractive choice in this new market sector.
> Full spec sheets for the NEX-3 and NEX-5 are available on the Sony UK website
