The competition
Images: Sony NEX-C3 and Nikon J1
This is a very interesting time for the compact system camera market, with manufacturers seemingly taking greater risks to create a unique offering. A considered approach to investing in the right camera is therefore vital.
We have seen a difference in sensor size between such cameras. Nikon surprised us with a smaller than expected sensor in its 1-series models, insisting that features are the driving force. Such features include a 600Mb/sec processing speed and class-leading burst rate. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Olympus Pen E-PM1 both use a larger micro four thirds sensor and Sony’s NEX-C3 uses a larger-still APS-C unit. The latter is only a fraction bigger in the body, but its lenses are larger and heavier.
In the battle to be the smallest, the Pentax Q currently reigns supreme, with retro styling to boot. Fujifilm’s FinePix X10 features the same-sized sensor, a similar style and built-in optical viewfinder, yet it is a fixed-lens compact.
