Sony a5100 16-50mm Mirrorless Digital Camera
Rating
Product Overview
The Sony a5100 is a compact and lightweight mirrorless digital camera featuring a 24.3MP APS-C sensor for high-resolution images and Full HD video recording. It boasts an ultra-fast autofocus system with 179 AF points and 6fps continuous shooting. With built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, instant sharing via smartphone is seamless. The 3-inch flip-up LCD screen is perfect for selfies. It supports various video formats and offers a range of compatible lenses for versatile shooting options. Its compact size makes it ideal for travel and everyday use.
Product Specifications
Size & Weight
Features
A function that compensates for camera shake within the camera body. It reduces blur in photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions or when using telephoto lenses. Allows for sharper images without a tripod.
The Sony a5100 does not feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS). This means that image stabilization is only available through lenses that have built-in Optical SteadyShot (OSS) technology. Without IBIS, handheld shooting in low light or with non-stabilized lenses can result in blurry images due to camera shake. Users may need to increase ISO or use a tripod to compensate.
A function that automatically detects and focuses on the subject's eyes. It ensures sharp focus on the eyes, which is critical for portrait photography. Useful for capturing clear and expressive portraits.
The Sony a5100 does not have dedicated Eye Detection Autofocus. While the camera's autofocus system is fast and accurate, it lacks the ability to automatically detect and focus on the subject's eyes, which is a useful feature for portrait photography. Users must manually select the focus point to ensure sharp focus on the eyes.
A function that allows the LCD screen to be tilted upwards or downwards. It makes it easier to compose shots from high or low angles. Enables more creative and comfortable shooting positions.
The 3-inch LCD screen can be tilted upwards 180 degrees, making it easy to compose self-portraits and shoot from high or low angles. This feature enhances the camera's versatility and is particularly useful for vlogging and creative photography. The screen provides a clear view of the scene, even in bright sunlight.
A function that allows connecting an external microphone for improved audio quality. It enhances audio recording for videos, making them sound clearer and more professional. Beneficial for vlogging or recording interviews.
The Sony a5100 does not have an external microphone input. This limits the ability to record high-quality audio directly with the camera. Users who need better audio for video recording will need to use an external audio recorder and sync the audio in post-production.
A function that allows the camera to be powered via USB. It allows you to continuously power the camera using a power bank or wall adapter. It allows you to continuously power the camera using a power bank or wall adapter. Useful for extended shooting sessions or time-lapse photography.
The Sony a5100 does not support USB power supply during operation. While the camera can be charged via USB, it cannot be powered directly from a USB source while shooting. This can be a limitation for extended shooting sessions, as users must rely on battery power.
A function that highlights areas in focus on the LCD screen or viewfinder. It assists with manual focusing, making it easier to achieve sharp focus. Helpful when using manual focus lenses or in challenging focusing situations.
The Sony a5100 does not offer a focus peaking function. This feature helps with manual focusing by highlighting the areas of the image that are in sharp focus. Without focus peaking, manual focusing can be more challenging, especially when using lenses with narrow depth of field.
SHOPSTAFF Rating Score
The Sony a5100 is a capable entry-level mirrorless camera with good image quality and fast autofocus. Its compact size and flip-up screen make it great for selfies and travel. However, it lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models. Predicted usage period is around 3-5 years with proper care. Main use cases include travel, portraits, and everyday photography.
Brand & Manufacturer Details
Key Highlights
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Fast autofocus with 179 AF points.
- Flip-up screen for selfies.
- Good image quality with 24.3MP APS-C sensor.
Considerations
- No in-body image stabilization.
- Limited 4K video recording.
- No viewfinder, relying solely on the LCD screen.
- Battery life may be limited during extended use.
Recommended For
- Beginner photographers.
- Travelers seeking a compact camera.
- Selfie enthusiasts.
- Users wanting a step up from smartphone photography.
Not Recommended For
- Professional photographers.
- Users needing advanced video features.
- Those requiring weather-sealed bodies.
- Users who prefer a viewfinder.
Suitable For
- Travel photography.
- Portrait photography.
- Everyday snapshots.
- Selfies and vlogging.
Not Suitable For
- Fast-paced sports photography.
- Professional video production.
- Underwater photography without appropriate housing.
- Low-light situations requiring high ISO performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q.I'm looking for a camera that's easy to use but still takes great photos. Is the Sony a5100 a good choice?
Q.I want to be able to easily share photos from my camera to my smartphone. Does the Sony a5100 have that capability?
Q.I'm concerned about the camera being too bulky. Is the Sony a5100 compact and easy to carry?
Q.How is the video quality on the Sony a5100?
Q.I like taking selfies. Does this camera have any features that make it easier?
Q.Is the Sony a5100 good for low light photography?
SHOPSTAFF Rating Ranking
The Canon EOS R5: a full-frame mirrorless camera with 8K video, 45MP sensor, and advanced autofocus.
| Image Sensor Size | - mm | Effective Pixels | 45 MP |
| ISO Range | 100-51200 | Shutter Speed | - sec |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift | Continuous Shooting Speed | 12 fps |
| Video Resolution | 8K | Mount Type | RF |
| LCD Screen Size | - inch | Weight | - g |
Sony
Alpha 1 ILCE1/B Full-frame Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Camera
$5,398(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-26
The Sony Alpha 1: high-resolution, high-speed full-frame mirrorless camera for creators capturing the impossible.
| Image Sensor Size | - mm | Effective Pixels | 50.1 MP |
| ISO Range | 50 | Shutter Speed | - sec |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift | Continuous Shooting Speed | 30 fps |
| Video Resolution | 8k 30p | Mount Type | Sony E |
| LCD Screen Size | - inch | Weight | - g |
The Canon EOS R5 Mark II: a high-performance mirrorless camera with advanced features for stunning photos and videos.
| Image Sensor Size | - mm | Effective Pixels | 45 MP |
| ISO Range | - | Shutter Speed | - sec |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift | Continuous Shooting Speed | 30 fps |
| Video Resolution | 8K | Mount Type | Canon RF |
| LCD Screen Size | - inch | Weight | - g |
The Canon EOS R1 is a top-tier full-frame mirrorless camera designed for professional action photography.
| Image Sensor Size | 36 x 24 mm | Effective Pixels | 24.2 MP |
| ISO Range | 50-51200 | Shutter Speed | - sec |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift | Continuous Shooting Speed | 40 fps |
| Video Resolution | 6K/60p | Mount Type | Canon RF |
| LCD Screen Size | - inch | Weight | 1134 g |
The Canon EOS R5 Mark II: a high-performance mirrorless camera with advanced features for stunning photos and videos.
| Image Sensor Size | 36 x 24 mm | Effective Pixels | 45 MP |
| ISO Range | 50- - | Shutter Speed | - sec |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift | Continuous Shooting Speed | 30 fps |
| Video Resolution | 8K | Mount Type | Canon RF |
| LCD Screen Size | - inch | Weight | 680 g |
