Sony Alpha NEX-5T Pro Reviews

Ultimately the new Sony NEX-5T is once again a likable and easy to recommend compact system camera which literally feels better balanced with the 16-50mm lens. Still Highly Recommended then, but we'd expect to see next year's inevitable update make some real strides forward...

It’s easy recommending the Sony NEX-5T. It grabs images that are this close to Fujifilm CSCs using the X-Trans CMOS sensor. Since Sony supplies chips for practically everyone, they could even be the same imaging device but we slightly prefer the photos of the X-M1, which are just a bit sharper thanks to the Fujifilm glass. Where Sony beats Fujifilm – and practically everyone else – is its 60p videos that seem to jump off the screen. We also really liked the 5T’s Hybrid AF which never hesitated for a moment focusing on subjects. Again, the only major issue we had is with the lack of a built-in flash, and the restriction put on the tilting display when you screw on the external flash. If this isn’t an issue – and for many of you it won’t be – the NEX-5T is definitely a good package for the price.

The Sony NEX-5T is one of the more compact mirrorless cameras available, particularly considering it has an APS-C CMOS sensor. For a smaller mirrorless camera you would have normally had to look at the smaller sensor Nikon 1 series, however there is now the option of the Panasonic Lumix GM1 with Micro Four Thirds sensor, and generally smaller Micro Four Thirds lenses. The Sony NEX-5T is comfortable to hold with a large rubberised grip, and produces excellent images with good colour and detail. It has a number of impressive and useful features including 10fps continuous shooting, DRO and HDR modes to expand dynamic range, and good noise performance. The touch-screen on the back makes it easier to use, and the tilting screen makes it easy to take self portraits or shoot at different angles. For those looking for one of the smallest possible mirrorless cameras with an APS-C CMOS sensor, with high speed shooting and built in Wi-Fi, the Sony NEX-5T would make an excellent choice.

Sony's Alpha NEX-5T mirrorless camera is simply last year's NEX-5R with added NFC support for quick image transfer to a smartphone. And the price has come down. So this isn't a bad thing.