Compact DSLR v DSLR (discussion, please input)

[Tajemi]

I am almost ready to purchase a new camera I have always used a compact but have always wanted a DSLR but have never had the $ for one. Now I am finally doing some serious research because the time has come that I can finally buy one.

I notice now that there are little compact DSLR cameras with interchangeable lenses (such as the new NEX-5 by sony), they look like something I would enjoy using, but I don't want to fork out all the money and then wish I had've bought a normal DSLR.

Can I open a discussion for comparing the two tpyes of cameras so I can make a more informed decision?

I would love to hear from anyone in regards to these two types of cameras

[NicoleScraps]

Oh my goodness, I have never heard of those compact dslr cameras. I just googled the one your mentioned and WOW, it is little.
I don't know though. I cannot imagine that the little camera would not be limited in some way and have some drawbacks though.
I guess it depends on your needs. Do you need the compact size more than you need the other functions and possibly better image quality?

[RichardTaylor]

Have a look at this review.

Sony NEX-3 & NEX-5 Review: 1. Introduction: Digital Photography Review

IQ appears to be good, especially in RAW.

The biggest downside for me is, common to all cameras with only a LCD display, that you can't see the screen in bright sunlight and that it is very difficult to track moving subjects when the camera is held at arms length.

[Tajemi]

Thank you RT, I was trying to find a reviwe that compare the two, off to have a look.

[IABoomer]

Look at "micro 4/3" cameras for other examples of compact bodies with interchangeable lenses. You'll find more models.

The problem I can see with these, besides the aforementioned screen visibility (unless you buy an electronic viewfinder) is that these are more niche cameras, so the volume sold isn't as high, which makes the cost per unit for bodies and lenses higher than a comparably spec'ed dSLR.

[Nicole]

I can offer some insight into the comparison (I have a NEX-3 and a Nikon D90). All in all, the only downfall I'm currently seeing with the NEX-3, which I bought really because I wanted something nicer than a P&S for throwing in my pocket, is that there isn't a huge selection of lenses for the NEX-3. I'm looking at getting an adapter for my Nikon lenses, but the adapter is around $100-200 and I lose any auto focus abilities. The only lenses currently out there for the NEX system are: 16mm f/2.8, 18-55mm, and 18-200mm. I sometimes wish I'd gone with one of the 4/3 compacts just because there are a few more lenses out there.

In terms of image quality, it's definitely comparable to me. There's a little more noise on the NEX-3, but nothing that I can't cope with in post, and not nearly as much as you get with a standard P&S.

In terms of features, heck, it's got some neat stuff. I've finally just about figured out the sweep pano mode, and it's nice having the tiltable screen.

Having used both, my opinion is this. I love my DSLR, but it's heavy and carrying it around is bulky. The compact DSLR wins hands down. I can carry the camera and 2 lenses in a coat pocket or a small makeup bag. That being said, if I want lens variety, the DSLR wins hands down. I think the compact DSLRs are kind of a middle ground between a P&S and a DSLR, but they edge close to the DSLR in many ways. I think the biggest things you'd want to ask yourself when choosing is:
1. Do I want a large lens selection without buying adapters? (or Will I be happy with a potentially limited selection of lenses?)
2. Do I really want to carry heaps of equipment around?

[ravncat]

I use both a nikon DSLR system - and the olympus micro four thirds system --- the Sony NEX cameras are similar. With the Sony - you get a sensor just as large as a regular Dslr. (not full frame) the 4/3rds sensor of the olympus/panasonic are a little smaller.

The main differences are in a few categories -

Lens Selection
- There are alot more choices in the DSLR world that are designed for the dslr. Meaning - they work fully as intended.

- if you want the size advantage of the smaller cameras and lenses - you need to get the first party system lenses. the micro four thirds (panasonic olympus) lenses are smaller than the sony nex lenses.

The mirrorless cameras (nex and micro four thirds) can use just about any lens - via an adapter, but often you lose features like autofocus or aperture control (though it depends on the adapter)

System Size, weight
DSLR`s are bulkier, heavier - better suited to conditions in unhappy weather. (though the lower end models may not be so weather resistant)
Mirrorless are small, lighter weight - weaker built - not weather resistant (yet - hopefully we`ll get some tank like models in the future)

Camera Control - view - features
DSLR`s tend to have more knobs, buttons and dials - meaning less menu usage - more direct control - optical viewfinders -- the higher up the technology tree you go, the more robust and awesome control you get. DSLR`s tend to have faster continuous shooting and autofocus at the moment - that could well change.

Mirrorless have fewer direct controls and more menu usage - depending on the model - the controls on the SONY systems are fewer than on the micro four thirds systems. How important this is to you should be decided on how you like the camera feel. I have no problems with the dual dials on my ep-1 but I personally wouldn:t be happy with the control on the Nex.

With mirrorless you have to get an electric viewfinder or use the lcd on the back of the camera - different brands have different screens - I`Ve no trouble with my ep-1 screen in daylight - other people do.

Image Quality.

This is harder to quanitfy directly - The mirrorless cameras have an image quality in general just below DSLR quality - the SONY NEX in specific has an imaging sensor equal to the Sony DSLR`s - the panasonic and olympus ones are a bit noisier - with less dynamic range - But they`Re pretty darn close. I`d put the nex image quality above the micro four third - but the ergonomics to the micro four thirds.

All in all, they`re great fun - it`s nice to have a small light weight camera with very good image quality, interchangeable lenses and "stealth factor" - it doesn`t replace my DSLR - and it can`t outperform my high end camera - and the lenses that I have for it.

I think using the cameras will give you a good idea --- here`s a recent shot from my micro four thirds panasonic -



They`re quite capable of getting isolated depth of field - and good quality, but smaller than a dslr. Overall you pay for control, body strength and lose a bit of system lens choices - but gain access to using almost any lens with manual focus plus an adapter.

[Nicole]

I'd agree, the controls on the NEX take a bit of getting used to, but once you have it figured out it's mostly ok. The only annoying thing is that it requires going in to the menu to change ISOs if you're not using auto ISO. Otherwise I'm ok with the ergonomics of it.

Mostly I'm just replying because it didn't even dawn on me to include an example.

[inkista]

Just nitpicking. But guys, these aren't compact SLRs of any kind.

Remember SLR = Single Lens Reflex.

Reflex as in mirror reflection. These new cameras are most notable for not having any mirrorbox or optical viewfinder, but using either the LCD or an electronic viewfinder for composition. That's why they're so much smaller.

The terms I've seen most are "large-sensored compacts" and "mirrorless", as well as the EVIL acronym (Electronic Viewfinder Interchangeable Lens).

The other thing is that both Nikon and Canon have noticed the market share going to micro four-thirds, Sony NEX, and Samsung NX. They've both made statements over the last year that they're gong to enter the market segment. It's early days yet.

[sk66]

The compact DSLR is a new field, and it is rapidly changing...That's why I haven't invested in it yet. Plus it's whole other "system" for me (I already have a DSLR)
I do think it's very comparable to s crop sensor DSLR in capability (maybe not ease of use)...

I would say best money depends on where you see your photography going...A DSLR where your lenses etc can move with you as you upgrade bodies might be a better investment long term...then again, maybe not.
But if not you might want to consider one of the "transition cameras". (fixed lens DSLR)