Our verdict
Given that this camera shares many of its core components with the Alpha 6000, I expected it to deliver the same superb image quality and it did not disappoint, ticking that box emphatically but at a more affordable price point.
Sony’s E-mount system now has something for everybody: the Alpha 5100 takes the impressive image-capturing technology from the more advanced Alpha 6000 and places it inside a truly compact body that has a simple and easy-to-use interface.
If you don’t need a viewfinder or the extra control dials of the Alpha 6000, but want more advanced stills and video capturing capabilities than those offered by the Alpha 5000 – particularly the higher-resolution sensor and superior autofocusing and tracking performance – the Alpha 5100 is a camera seriously worth considering.
For those needing quick AF and great video, it offers some top tech at a highly competitive price.
Key features
The Sony Alpha 5100 boasts a raft of features aimed at those who thrive on the latest tech
Play Memories
The Play – Memories mobile app from Sony allows you to shoot wirelessly and transfer images to compatible smartphones and tablets.
Dual video
Record full HD – 1920 x 1080-pixel video while simultaneously recording in MP4 codec.
Front-facing screen
Taking self-portraits is made much easier thanks to the Alpha 5100’s 180° flip screen.
E mount
Making use of Sony’s E-mount lens family, this is one of the world’s smallest interchangeable-lens cameras with an APS-C-sized sensor.
Touchscreen
Touch-focusing and shooting is highly responsive, but it is limited to shooting only.
Apps
Downloadable apps via the in-camera PlayMemories menu can expand the functionality of the camera, adding features such as time-lapse, star trail and motion shot.
