For an an interchangeable-lens model, the NEX-5 has an extremely compact design, yet remains comfortable to shoot. The interface has its share of annoying quirks, though.
Lori Grunin
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
The NEX-5 is so small that it gets visually overwhelmed even by its 18-55mm kit lens. Still, it feels balanced in your hands while shooting.
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Tiltable LCD
The tiltable LCD is a really nice feature to have, though it doesn't make up for the lack of an electronic viewfinder option.
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Top controls
A dedicated movie-record button is an essential control for any camera that shoots video. As you can see, there isn't much in the way of controls on top of the camera.
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Microphone
The NEX-5 has a stereo mic with more physical separation than most.
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Grip
The NEX-5 has a slightly larger grip than the NEX-3, and it's just large enough to feel comfortable, but a little insecure for one-handed shooting because of the limited places on the back for your thumb.
The flash comes off, and also tucks down flat on top of the camera.
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It's all lens
Sony developed a new mount system, the E-mount, for its NEX series. The company will offer an adapter for using its standard lenses, but won't support autofocus for them (as is common).
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Back controls
Though there are a few hardwired controls on the back, the bulk of the camera's operation uses a combination of the two blank buttons and the context-sensitive menu system.
There's not a lot of room on the back for a thumbrest; I frequently found my thumb sliding left to land on that top button.
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Contextual controls
If you look at the right side of the LCD, you can get a sense of how the contextual controls work. Pressing the indicated button will bring up the virtual mode dial, and scrolling the wheel will adjust aperture size. Notice how you get both a numeric aperture readout as well as the iconic closer-farther indicator. Also notice how low the battery's getting; the camera has pretty lame battery life.
Don't worry, you can make this display a lot less cluttered.
