Sony Alpha NEX-3N Pro Reviews

Bridge cameras "bridge" the gap between two different types of camera. The NEX-3N tries to bridge the gap between compact point-and-shoot digital cameras and enthusiast oriented interchangeable lens cameras. The third generation NEX-3N was designed to meet the needs of a wide demographic. This camera should appeal to serious shooters looking for a compact camera with lots of creative potential, casual shooters looking for an easy to use interchangeable lens camera that automatically makes all exposure decisions, and amateur photographers looking to move up from their P&S digital camera to something with a bit more sophistication and flexibility. The NEX-3N is capable (with very little effort on the part of the user) of consistently and dependably delivering high quality images and excellent HD video. The NEX-3N successfully combines the P&S simplicity and ease of use of a compact digital camera with the larger sensor and lens interchangeability of a DSLR. To put that another way --the Sony NEX-3N makes the switch from P&S digital cameras to interchangeable-lens cameras as simple and painless as possible.

The Sony NEX-3N makes the step up from point-and-shoot to interchangeable-lens camera system as seamless as we've ever seen, employing a simple but effective user interface and placing a zoom lever right on the camera body. Perhaps more importantly, the NEX-3N -- backed by its relatively large APS-C-sized sensor -- takes great photos that outpace some higher-end mirrorless models, and even some DSLRs. While experienced photographers may focus on the camera's shortcomings, and will probably only consider it as a compact backup, entry-level shooters will love how easy the camera is to use, how fun and fast it is to shoot with, and how much bang for the buck the NEX-3N delivers.

The Sony NEX-3N is an affordable and capable Interchangeable Lens Camera featuring an APS-C sized 16.1-Megapixel imaging sensor, powerful BIONZ image processor and the Sony E-mount with its fantastic collection of lenses. This camera is easy enough for anyone to use while still offering all the features needed for a more advanced photographer.

Superb image quality and an aggressively low price, but the poor quality screen lets it down

Looking and feeling more like a compact camera than ever, thanks to the combination of the new finger-tip zoom lever and the 16-50mm power-zoom lens, the Sony NEX-3N is almost the perfect introduction to interchangeable lens cameras. Significantly smaller and lighter than last year's NEX-F3 model, the new 3N still manages to retain its predecessors built-in flash and 180-dgree tilting LCD screen. It does lose the accessory port, though, so you can't fit an electronic viewfinder, and it also offers a lower resolution LCD panel, slower burst shooting and the still rather obtuse menu system that Sony persist in using.

The Sony NEX-3N is an excellent entry level mirrorless camera, delivering excellent image quality, without compromising on handling or design. The camera has a good tilting 3inch screen with a decent resolution, and built in flash, as well as a number of options that would suit the beginner or those looking to add more creativity to shots. The choice of the 16-50mm PZ OSS lens makes the Sony NEX-3N extremely compact and pocketable yet still gives you an excellent wide-angle lens, and Digital SLR image quality thanks to the APS-C CMOS sensor. For more advanced photographers, the camera features focus peaking, which will be of use for anyone using adapters and manual lenses. Priced at £325 with the versatile wide-angle 16-50mm PZ OSS lens, the NEX-3N is excellent value for money, cheaper than nearly every other mirrorless camera, as well as cheaper (and more compact) than nearly every Digital SLR. This should be very high on your list for a new mirrorless camera, particularly as it comes with the compact, wide-angle 16-50mm OSS power zoom lens. For beginners or those that want to use a mirrorless compact camera, without breaking the bank, the Sony NEX-3N is highly recommended.

Is this Sony's strongest NEX to date? No, it's not. But it's by far the most impressive entry-level Sony ILC we've seen, and one of the very best options for less than 600 bucks. Excellent image quality, a solid (but compact) build and Sony's new 16-50mm retractable zoom lens make the NEX-3N an excellent fit for interchangeable-lens hopefuls making the jump from a compact point-and-shoot, or even current NEX-3/C3/F3 owners ready for something a bit more fresh. It's a fantastically capable camera, and it looks great, too. We wouldn't hesitate to pick one up.

The Sony Alpha NEX-3N isn't as good a performer as its predecessor, but it does include a collapsible power zoom lens and it comes at a lower price.