The Sony α5100 (commonly written as Sony Alpha 5100) is a mirror‑less interchangeable‑lens digital camera announced by Sony Corporation in August 2014 and released in September 2014. It belongs to Sony’s Alpha series and was positioned as an entry‑level model aimed at consumers transitioning from compact point‑and‑shoot cameras to interchangeable‑lens systems.
Design and Build
- Form factor: Compact, rectangular body with a tilting LCD screen.
- Dimensions: Approximately 111 mm × 64 mm × 38 mm.
- Weight: About 269 g (including battery).
- Construction: Polycarbonate outer shell with a metal frame around the lens mount.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 23.5 mm × 15.6 mm APS‑C Exmor CMOS, 24.3 megapixels |
| Image Processor | BIONZ X |
| ISO Range | 100 – 25600 (expandable in later firmware) |
| Autofocus System | 179‑phase‑detection points (fast hybrid AF) |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 6 fps with AF/AE tracking |
| Video Recording | Full‑HD (1080 p) at 60 fps; MP4 (H.264) |
| Viewfinder | None (electronic viewfinder optional via accessory) |
| LCD | 3.0‑inch tilting LCD, 921,600 dots |
| Connectivity | Wi‑Fi, NFC, micro‑USB |
| Battery | NP‑FZ100 (≈ 380 shots per CIPA rating) |
| Storage | SD/SDHC/SDXC card slots |
Notable Features
- Fast Hybrid Autofocus: The integration of phase‑detect and contrast‑detect AF points enables rapid focus acquisition, advantageous for both stills and video.
- Tilting Rear Screen: The LCD can tilt upward 180°, facilitating self‑portrait and low‑angle shooting.
- Wi‑Fi/NFC Connectivity: Allows direct image transfer to smart devices and remote control via Sony’s Imaging Edge Mobile application.
- Compact Size: Marketed as a lightweight alternative to larger DSLR bodies while retaining interchangeable‑lens flexibility.
Reception
Professional reviews highlighted the camera’s high‑resolution sensor and advanced autofocus as strengths for its price class. Critics noted the absence of an electronic viewfinder and limited battery capacity compared with higher‑end Alpha models. Overall, the α5100 was regarded as a solid entry point into interchangeable‑lens photography for hobbyists and beginners.
Successors and Related Models
The α5100 was succeeded by the Sony α6000 (released in 2014) and later by the α6100 (released in 2019), which incorporated newer processors, improved low‑light performance, and additional features such as a built‑in electronic viewfinder (in the α6100). The α5100 shares a similar sensor and lens mount (E‑mount) with these models.
References
- Sony Corporation press release, August 2014.
- Product specifications, Sony Imaging Products & Solutions website (archived 2015).
- CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) battery life standard testing results.
All information presented is based on publicly available manufacturer data and contemporaneous product reviews.
