Our verdict
At first glance it is difficult to know what to make of the NEX-5. Its unconventional looks make it seem something of a novelty, but it is actually an extremely powerful camera.
Compact camera users should find it much easier to use than a DSLR. However, I think Sony has missed a trick by not including a function button that would help speed up the use of the camera for existing DSLR users.
Although the lack of an optional EVF seems like an oversight, I didn’t actually miss having one, although I will admit that I did hold the camera to my eye a couple of times while testing it.
I am excited to see exactly where Sony will take the NEX system. A video camera that uses E-mount lenses is already in the pipeline, but I wonder if we will see a slightly larger NEX camera aimed at more advanced photographers.
For now, the NEX-5 is the smallest micro-system camera available and is perfect for those looking to upgrade from a compact digital camera, or experienced photographers who want something smaller with which to point and shoot. As a replacement or substitute for a DSLR, enthusiast photographers may find it a little frustrating, but the NEX-5 is capable of great things.
Sony NEX-5 – Key features
Accessory port
There are currently three accessories that can be used with the port: the flash, the Sony ECM-SST1 external microphone and an optical viewfinder that is available for use with the 16mm lens.
Flash
A small flash comes supplied with the NEX-5 and attaches to the accessory port on top of the camera. While this helps to keep the size of the camera to a minimum, it can be fiddly and take a few seconds to attach it.
Direct video record
This button can be used to start and stop video capture.
Jog dial
Similar to the dial found on professional Canon EOS cameras, the rear dial can be used to quickly cycle through settings.
Software
Included with the Sony NEX-5 is Sony Image Data Converter SR and Image Data Lightbox SR. These two pieces of software allow you to organise and edit both JPEGs and raw files.
Lenses
There are currently three Alpha E-mount lenses for the NEX system: an 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS, a 16mm f/2.8 pancake and an 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS. All three lenses are finished with a brushed aluminium surface and cost around £270, £220 and £690 respectively.
Lens adapters
Two lens adapters are available that attach to a bayonet mount on the end of the 16mm pancake lens. They are the VCL-ECU1 Ultra Wide Angle converter and the VCL-ECF1 Fisheye lens converter.
Anti-dust system
The NEX-5 is fitted with an anti-dust system that vibrates the low-pass filter, which is fitted in front of the sensor. This takes place each time the camera is turned off and is designed to dislodge dust particles from the filter so they don’t appear in images.
