Sony NEX-5T review

Photo and video quality appear to be virtually identical to the old NEX-5N, but that’s certainly not a criticism. We’re delighted that Sony has stuck with a 16-megapixel sensor, which delivers plenty of detail and the lowest noise of any CSC.

The sensor has had no problem capturing details in the brightest and darkest parts of this scene – click to enlarge

The sensor is the same size as those used in SLRs and bigger than the ones in most other CSCs, and it excels for smooth, crisp details. Its size also helps to produce a shallow depth of field, blurring the background to draw the eye to the main subject. Focus from the 18-55mm kit lens deteriorates a little towards the edges of frames at wide apertures, but it’s rarely a concern in practice.

JPEGs are crisp and detailed, but raw mode really shows what this camera is capable of – click to enlarge

There’s a hint of noise in these skin tones at ISO 800, but indoor image quality is as good as we’ve seen from a CSC – click to enlarge

The video mode is one of the best around too, with sharp details, low noise and high quality soundtracks that aren’t spoiled by whirring lens motors. Keen videographers will appreciate the choice of 25p, 25i or 50p frame rates, as well as full control over exposure settings.

The NEX-5T is surrounded by some very strong competitors. The Fujifilm X-M1 beats it for image quality, with razor-sharp details and incredible low noise, but it’s bulkier and pricier. The Panasonic GF6 costs less and is just as rewarding to use, but it can’t quite match the Sony for image quality. The NEX-5T occupies a comfortable middle ground, with superb quality on virtually every front and a reasonable price. It’s an obvious Best Buy.