Review: Sony A3000, Between DSLR and Mirrorless Camera

What would happen if two different concept Sony camera, NEX and Alpha DSLR-Series combined to be one? Yes, this is a new approach offered by Sony, a new camera product A3000.

Actually, Sony A3000 is a Sony NEX camera but with DSLR-style body appearance. This is evident from the use of E-Mount lens mount commonly used by NEX-Series and the menu arrangement is similar with Sony Nex series. Sony A3000 has been equipped with APS-C HD CMOS 20.1 megapixels, BIONZ processor, 3-inch screen and electronic viewfinder.

Although using E-Mount lenses, you can still use the A-Mount lenses with the help of an optional lens adapter.

To bring a sharp photos, Sony A3000 comes with a technology Contrast Detect Autofocus 25 points. This camera also has Optical Steady Shot stabilization technology to optimize image capture in order to stay sharp and minimal blur, and has been equipped with a variety of useful features such as tips on photographing, taking photos with Intelligent Auto mode, Sweep Panorama and 15 different photo effects options. In essence, all the features of the entry-level DSLR cameras are adopted.

Sony A3000 will be available in September 2013 with a price tag around USD400, includes 18-55mm kit lens. This makes it the cheapest camera on the DSLR and mirrorless market.

Sony A3000
Sensor: CMOS 20.1-megapixel
Image processor: BIONZ
ISO: ISO 100 - ISO 16000
Focus: 25 focus points
Image Stabilization: Optical Image Stabilization
Lens mount: E-mount, A-Mount with adapter
Screen:  3-inch, 230,400 dot
Viewfinder: Electronic
Video: Full HD 1080p 60i
Internal Flash: Yes
Connectivity: Mini HDMI , USB 2.0
Battery: NP-FW50 (450 photos per charge)
Weight: 411 grams (including battery)
Dimension: 128 x 91 x 85 mm