Sony Alpha NEX-F3
Announced May 17, 2012
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Sony Alpha NEX-F3 is a capable entry-level mirrorless camera that provides excellent image quality and a versatile tilting screen for self-portraits. While it succeeds as a user-friendly starter system, the menu-heavy interface and awkward design choices can frustrate those seeking more manual control.
Weighted from 18 reviewer scores
Pros
- Excellent image quality with a large APS-C sensor and good low-light performance
- Versatile 180-degree tilting LCD screen for easy self-portraits
- Above-average battery life and solid build quality
- Comfortable, substantial hand-grip
- Capable video recording with stereo sound
Cons
- Frustrating menu-driven interface and lack of physical controls
- Inconsistent or slow autofocus performance, particularly in low light
- Design limitations including restricted downward screen tilt and weak built-in flash
- Poorly placed SD card slot that is inaccessible when using a tripod
- In-camera battery charging is slow and lacks a standalone charger
- Launch price $599 (USD)
- Sensor 16.1MP APS-C CMOS
- Video 1080p 50p
- Stabilization In-body IS
- Burst 5.5 fps electronic 2.5 fps mechanical
What the Reviewers Say
All 18 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- DPReview 74/100
The Sony Alpha NEX-F3 is one of the best entry-level mirrorless cameras on the market.
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Paired with a better-performing lens, though, the Sony NEX-F3 represents a good choice for the consumer photographer.
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The Sony NEX-F3 is a very capable camera. What it does, it does well, and for an entry-level compact system camera it’s difficult to find anything that is really missing.
- The Verge 7.2/10
NEX cameras still set the bar for this kind of shooter, but there’s some good competition now.
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The Sony NEX-F3 takes great images and is easy for the beginner to use.
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The Sony NEX-F3 significantly improves on its predecessor with a more versatile 180 degree tilting screen, fully integrated pop-up flash and 1080 50i/25p HD video recording.
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The Sony NEX-F3 is a well rounded entry-level compact system camera, offering excellent image quality and plenty of features.
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The NEX-F3 is an excellent mirrorless ILC, but it's not the best entry-level camera — not even from Sony.
- Digital Trends 8/10
With cameras like this around, you can understand why we had reservations about the Panasonic Lumix G DMC-GX1.
- CNET 7.8/10
Sony has really hit its stride with the latest generation of Alpha NEX mirrorless interchangeable-lens compact cameras.
- Photo Review 8.5/10
Buy this camera if [y]ou’re looking for a compact, large-sensor interchangeable-lens camera with PASM shooting modes plus support for raw file capture and Full HD video recording.
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It’s bigger, has a better grip than the old C3, has a built in flash, great low light and HIGH ISO performance and gives great results even with the 18-55 Kit zoom. If you want a starter camera to get into the NEX system, the F3 makes for a great choice.
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Why you’d buy the Sony NEX-3F: attractive price; access to E-mount and A-mount lenses.
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The NEX-F3 proves why compact mirrorless cameras are a great idea.
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The Sony NEX-F3 is a top camera in the $600 range, and if you want to snap great photos without tinkering with any settings, it is very much worth considering.
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That is a reasonable amount for what you're getting, a lot of features in here, and I think it's worth every penny.
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[I] would say if you can find this camera at an affordable price point, the photo quality is going to be incredible and the video quality will be just okay.
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I am very happy with this camera. The camera feels good in my hand, the grip makes it easy to hold on to while you take a picture.
