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Sony NEX-5 Mirrorless Camera

The Sony NEX-5 is a 14MP APS-C mirrorless camera — with Full HD (1080p) video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Sony NEX-5 Mirrorless Camera

Sony NEX-5 Mirrorless Camera

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Camera Overview — Sony NEX-5

The Sony NEX-5 is a compact mirrorless camera built around an APS-C sensor delivering 14MP resolution, processed through Sony's Bionz image processor. The camera captures stills at a maximum resolution of 4592x3056 pixels and offers a burst mode capable of up to 7 frames per second, making it a capable option for capturing fast-moving subjects. The ISO range runs from 200 to 12800, providing flexibility across a variety of lighting conditions.

For video, the NEX-5 records up to 1080p at frame rates of 60i and 30p in 8-bit color, with a Standard color profile available. Autofocus is handled by a 25-point contrast detection system, without eye or subject tracking. The camera features a 3.0-inch tilting TFT LCD display with 920,000 dots of resolution — a practical design choice given the absence of any optical or electronic viewfinder.

There is no in-body or digital image stabilization. The body is constructed from magnesium alloy, measures 111 x 59 x 38 mm, and weighs 287g. Storage is handled via SD, SDHC, SDXC, or Memory Stick cards.

Connectivity includes USB and Mini HDMI (Type C) output, while Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are not present. Flash is supported via an external unit attachable to the Smart Accessory Terminal. The camera runs on an NP-FW50 battery rated for approximately 330–430 shots per charge.

Key Features — Sony NEX-5

14.2MP APS-C Sensor: Sony's APS-C CMOS sensor captures images at up to 4592x3056 pixels, delivering strong detail and dynamic range compared to smaller sensor formats.

Bionz Image Processor: Sony's Bionz processor handles noise reduction and image rendering, contributing to cleaner output across the ISO range.

ISO 200–12800 Range: A wide sensitivity range gives shooters flexibility when moving between bright outdoor scenes and lower-light environments.

7fps Burst Mode: Continuous shooting at up to 7 frames per second makes it practical to capture fast-moving subjects without missing critical moments.

1080p Video Recording: Records Full HD footage at 60i or 30p frame rates, making it capable for standard HD video work.

Tilting 3.0-inch LCD: The 921,000-dot tilting display allows for flexible framing from low or high angles, compensating for the absence of a viewfinder.

Camera Specifications — Sony NEX-5

Sony NEX-5 full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel
TypeMirrorless
SensorAPS-C
Resolution14MP
ProcessorBionz
ISO Range200 – 12800
AF SystemContrast Detection
AF Points25
Max Photo Resolution4592x3056
Burst Rate7 fps
Max Video ResolutionFull HD (1080p)
Max Frame Rate60fps

Description — Sony NEX-5

The Sony NEX-5 is a mirrorless camera centered on an APS-C sensor with 14MP resolution and a Bionz image processor, delivering a maximum still image output of 4592x3056 pixels. Its 7fps burst mode makes it well-suited for capturing moving subjects, while an ISO range of 200–12800 gives shooters room to work across different lighting situations. Video capabilities include 1080p recording at 60i and 30p frame rates in 8-bit color.

The 25-point contrast detection autofocus system handles focusing duties, though eye and subject tracking are not available. Without any viewfinder, the 3.0-inch tilting TFT LCD at 920,000 dots serves as the primary interface for framing and review. The magnesium alloy body measures 111 x 59 x 38 mm and weighs just 287g, balancing portability with build quality.

Storage options include SD, SDHC, SDXC, and Memory Stick formats. Outputs include Mini HDMI (Type C) and USB, and flash is supported via an external unit connected to the Smart Accessory Terminal. The camera is powered by an NP-FW50 battery rated for approximately 330–430 shots per charge.

Pros — Sony NEX-5

  • ✓14MP APS-C sensor with Bionz processing delivers solid image quality for its class
  • ✓Burst mode capable of up to 7 frames per second suits action and fast-paced shooting
  • ✓1080p video recording at up to 60i/30p frame rates for competent HD footage

Cons — Sony NEX-5

  • ✗No in-body or digital image stabilization, which may result in camera shake without a stabilized lens
  • ✗No built-in viewfinder of any type — entirely dependent on the rear LCD for framing
  • ✗No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity limits wireless transfer and remote control options

Reviews — Sony NEX-5

Videos — Sony NEX-5

Is the Sony NEX-5 Still Good in 2025? (Full Review) — Kraig Pruett

Resources & Downloads — Sony NEX-5

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Sony NEX-5

Does the Sony NEX-5 have image stabilization?+
No. The NEX-5 has no in-body image stabilization and no digital image stabilization. Any stabilization would need to come from a compatible stabilized lens.
What video resolutions and frame rates does the NEX-5 support?+
The NEX-5 records video up to 1080p at frame rates of 60i and 30p. Video is captured in 8-bit color with a Standard color profile.
Does the NEX-5 have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?+
No. The NEX-5 does not include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. File transfer requires a physical USB connection or removing the memory card.
What memory cards does the Sony NEX-5 accept?+
The NEX-5 supports SD, SDHC, SDXC, and Memory Stick format cards, giving users a range of widely available storage options.
Does the NEX-5 have a viewfinder?+
No, the NEX-5 does not include an optical or electronic viewfinder. Composition and playback are handled entirely through the 3.0-inch tilting TFT LCD display.
What is the battery life on the Sony NEX-5?+
The NEX-5 uses an NP-FW50 battery rated at approximately 330 to 430 shots per charge according to the CIPA standard.
How do I check the shutter count on the Sony NEX-5?+
We have a complete guide to checking the shutter count on the Sony NEX-5, including what counts to look for when buying used. Read the full Sony NEX-5 shutter count guide.

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