Sony NEX-5N review

These graphs were produced using data generated by DXO Analyzer.

We shoot a specially designed chart in carefully controlled conditions and the resulting images are analysed using the DXO software.

Signal to noise ratio

A high signal to noise ratio (SNR) indicates a cleaner and better quality image.

JPEG images from the Sony NEX-5n show slightly better signal to noise ratio results than the Sony NEX-5 and the Olympus E-PL3. From a sensitivity of ISO 400 and above the Sony NEX-5n also shows better noise performance than the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3.

Raw signal to noise ratio

Raw images (after conversion to TIFF) from the Sony NEX-5n shows a better signal to noise ratio across the sensitivity range than the Sony NEX-5 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 and just beat the Olympus E-PL3 from a sensitivity of ISO 3200.

For a full explanation of what our resolution charts mean, and how to read them please click here to read the full article.

Dynamic range

This chart shows that the Sony NEX-5n's JPEGs capture a wide tonal range across the sensitivity range. Although there is a steep drop from ISO 3200, the tonal separation is still good.

Raw dynamic range

This chart indicates that the Sony NEX-5n's raw images (after conversion to TIFF) capture a wide tonal range across the sensitivity range, beating the Sony NEX-5, Olympus E-PL3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 by at least 1ev.

For more more details on how to interpret our test data, check out our full explanation of our noise and dynamic range tests.