Many consumers have revealed that the only reason they refrain from buying a DSLR is because of its size. They feel comfortable with the price for which they get the superb quality, the size is the only factor discouraging them. Now Sony has come out with world’s lightest and smallest , mirror less digital cameras with interchangeable lenses which provide DSLR like image quality.

A compact digital camera with DSLR like quality was long due and Sony has made a giant step forward to bridge this gap. It has come out with the new Sony NEX range of compact digital cameras. They can take image at the resolution of 14.2 MP.

Some of the major features of the NEX range of cameras are:

  • Crisper images with 14.2 MP Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor
  • 1080p HD recording with stereo sound
  • BIONZ sensor used in this series same as used in DSLR cameras
  • Has Sweep Panorama with 3D imaging capability
  • Anti-Motion Blur mode for better pictures
  • E-mount lens system compatible with all Sony DSLR lenses with an optional Mount Adaptor
  • Sony’s Anti-Dust Technology helps keep the Exmor CMOS sensor clean

The two cameras launched are NEX-3 and NEX-5 . Both measure about 4.5 x 2.5 x 1.5 inches and weigh about half a pound (sans lens). The difference between two models is that NEX-3 has 720p video and the NEX-5 1080i. Most of the specifications are the same but the NEX-5 has a somewhat smaller, magnesium body, and an extra twist button on the top plate.

LCD screen is amazing 3-inch 900,000-pixel resolution. The LCDs even flip out and twist which is an interesting feature looking at the compactness of the camera. Three e-mount lenses have been announced till now : the first is a 16mm F2.8 pancake mostly for portraits, the second a standard 18-55mm with an aperture range of F3.5-5.6 image stabilized kit zoom lens, and the third an image stabilized 18-200mm with an aperture range of F3.5-6.3, the super zoom lens.

The new models can be suited to both beginner and advanced users. Shooting options can be easily accessed via a control wheel and a couple of soft keys. Even help is provided by on screen shooting tips and a dedicated help guide. The lack of manual control might be bit disappointing for SLR style faithfuls.

Although the cameras look funny with lens protruding, but it seems Sony might have done it quite right this time around. With the right balance of size, convenience, features and power these cameras might quickly gather consumer base.

The NX-3 will be $550 with pancake lens, $600 with 18-55mm zoom; the NEX-5 $650 with pancake, $700 with zoom.

[image source : Dpreview]