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Sony subtly updates its mainstream NEX

The NEX-5T gets a few tweaks over its predecessor, the 5R.

Lori Grunin Senior Editor / Advice
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.
Expertise Photography, PCs and laptops, gaming and gaming accessories
Lori Grunin
Silver and white versions of the 5T won't be available until 2014. Lori Grunin/CNET

There's not much to say about Sony's replacement for the Alpha NEX-5R, the NEX-5T, which really only features a few tweaks -- few enough that I'd say watch for price drops on the 5R and snap it up.

The most noticeable change is the kit; Sony's swapping the large 18-55mm lens for the more compact, video-friendly 16-50mm f3.5-5.6 power zoom version. Sony also added NFC to the camera, to facilitate Wi-Fi connections between devices. Based on my experiences with the RX100 II, it's a lot nicer and more seamless than the more common method used by the 5R.

Shop for Sony Alpha NEX-5T (with 16-50mm lens, black)

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Sony Alpha NEX-5T -- just like the 5R (pictures)

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The NEX-5T will be available in black, white, or silver, but the latter two colors won't ship until 2014; the black version is slated to ship in September. The kit will cost $699.99, which is about $100 more than the 5R is currently going for.