Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Nikon L31 and Sony NEX-5 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Nikon L31 has external dimensions of 96 x 59 x 29 mm (3.78 x 2.32 x 1.14″) and weighs 160 g (0.35 lb / 5.64 oz) (including batteries). Sony NEX-5 has external dimensions of 111 x 59 x 38 mm (4.37 x 2.32 x 1.5″) and weighs 287 g (0.63 lb / 10.12 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Nikon L31 and the Sony NEX-5. Nikon L31 is 15mm narrower and 9mm thinner than Nikon L31 but they have the same height of 59mm. As you can tell, actually this is not a fair size comparison since Nikon L31 has a built-in lens but Sony NEX-5 doesn't. Once you put a lens on NEX-5, its thickness will increase significantly.
Comparison image of the Nikon L31 and the Sony NEX-5 Size, Weight and External Dimensions - Front View
Here is the back view size comparison of the Nikon L31 and Sony NEX-5.
Comparison image of the Nikon L31 and the Sony NEX-5 Size and Weight - Back View
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Nikon L31 and Sony NEX-5.
Top View Comparison image of the Nikon L31 and the the Sony NEX-5 Size
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Nikon L31 is significantly lighter (127g ) than the Sony NEX-5 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Again, this comparison may not be very useful in real life as we are comparing the weight of a camera with a built-in lens to the body-only weight of an interchangeable lens camera. Once you put a lens on NEX-5, the total kit will weigh much higher.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Nikon Coolpix L31 nor Sony Alpha NEX-5 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Mirrorless Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Sony NEX-5's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Nikon L31's 2.7" screen.
In addition to the size advantage, Sony NEX-5 LCD screen also has a
Tilting feature where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels. On the other hand, Nikon L31 has a fixed type screen which provides less flexibility in shooting positions compared to NEX-5.