This Sony camera features a BIONZ X image processor and an APS-C sensor packed in a body that’s half the size of a typical DSLR camera. The Sony a5100 is an excellent mirrorless camera in this price segment, especially with an interchangeable lens system. These features make it the best point and shoot under 500 and an incredible buy. If you want more great camera recommendations, check out this best digital camera list.
Why We Like It – Sony A5100 Review
The Sony Alpha a5100 mirrorless camera has an ultra-fast autofocus speed of 0.07 seconds and upto 6fps continuous shooting. The APS-C CMOS sensor makes the camera body super compact while delivering top notch image quality. The camera also supports interchangeable lenses.
- 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor
- Interchangeable lens via Sony E mount system
- Ultra-fast 0.07 second autofocus
- No viewfinder
Performance
The Sony a5100 Alpha camera comes with a 24.3-megapixel Exmor APS-HD CMOS sensor that offers ultimate image quality. The sensor coupled with the BIONZ X image processor enabled stunning detail in low light photos. The camera offers an ISO range of 100 to 25000 and also features a pop-up flash for those darker environments. It can also shoot full HD video with cinematic 24fps frame rate or 60fps. However, the Nikon Coolpix B700 is a better point and shoot for zoom lovers.
Related: See our Samsung NX2000 Smart camera review
Design
The design of the Sony a5100 is similar to most mirrorless cameras. However, Sony has not included a viewfinder of any sort on the camera. You will have to rely on the 3-inch flip up LCD screen. The camera is compact and lightweight, with some cues taken from the Sony a6000. It has an easily accessible mode dial and a special power zoom lever for one-handed zoom. Of course, you’re going to need a power zoom lens to make this work. If you’re looking for maximum optical zoom, then checkout the Canon PowerShot SX710.
Value
The Sony a5100 is complete value for money, mainly because of the E mount interchangeable lens system. If you don’t like the kit lens provided with the camera, you could opt for a power zoom lens, or any other compatible lens of your choice. The camera offers easy shooting mode selection via the PlayMemories Camera apps. You can also share your photos using built-in Wi-Fi with NFC features. The Nikon P7700 is another great value for money point and shoot camera to consider.
Related: Check out the Sony A6000 review
Sony A5100 Review Wrap Up
The Sony Alpha a5100 interchangeable lens mirrorless camera is a total package. It offers a high resolution APS-C CMOS sensor with a good kit lens, ultra fast 0.07 second autofocus, full HD video recording, Sony E mount system, and great ISO range. The lack of a viewfinder is a slight inconvenience, but not really a problem.
