Using K mounts on a NEX

Geoff H · 01-15-2012, 10:21 AM

With Nex 3 bodies being practically given away I was wondering about buying one in order to use my old K-M lenses on it. Obviously they aren't autofocus, but what are the limitations, do DL lenses work and is it worth it?

dgaies · 01-15-2012, 10:59 AM

Originally posted by Geoff H

With Nex 3 bodies being practically given away I was wondering about buying one in order to use my old K-M lenses on it. Obviously they aren't autofocus, but what are the limitations, do DL lenses work and is it worth it?

You can use any K-mount lenses on a NEX provided you buy an adapter (which are as cheap as $20). If you want to use DA lenses (w/o aperture rings), you'll have to purchase an adapter that lets you adjust the aperture via the adapter (you can find those for around the same price, maybe a couple dollars more).

bimjo · 01-15-2012, 12:34 PM

It's a trade off. The lenses work fine, some in stellar fashion. But you need to consider the size and weight of the lens. My Tamron 28-75/2.8 isn't what I ever considered a big lens on my K20/grip. On the NEX-5N it's huge. Not unworkable, but it really dwarfs the camera body. I have a Contax 28-85/3.3-40 that's even worse. My vivitar 24/2.8 w/adapter is about the same size as the kit lens, though quite a bit heavier.

Also you need to consider how easily the lens is manually focused. Most AF lenses have pretty bad manual focus ability (compared to manual focus lenses) because of the short throw. Usually not a huge issue unless it's a fast lens being used wide open. Focus peaking/magnification is a huge help here.

On the plus side, pretty much any camera lens can be adapted to the NEX series bodies, including the old Pentax 110 lenses, etc. so you aren't limited to one manufacturer/mount for legacy lenses. Anything from $10 to $10,000+ is fair game.

You really only have time and a bit of cash to lose. And even if you decide not to use legacy lenses, the NEX series is a pretty nice lightweight travel camera with e-mount lenses.

My thoughts after owning the 5N for 2 months, YMMV.

01-15-2012, 10:21 AM	#1
Geoff H Forum Member Join Date: Dec 2011 Posts: 52	Using K mounts on a NEX With Nex 3 bodies being practically given away I was wondering about buying one in order to use my old K-M lenses on it. Obviously they aren't autofocus, but what are the limitations, do DL lenses work and is it worth it?

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01-15-2012, 10:59 AM	#2
dgaies Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Maryland / Washington DC Posts: 3,917	Originally posted by Geoff H With Nex 3 bodies being practically given away I was wondering about buying one in order to use my old K-M lenses on it. Obviously they aren't autofocus, but what are the limitations, do DL lenses work and is it worth it? You can use any K-mount lenses on a NEX provided you buy an adapter (which are as cheap as $20). If you want to use DA lenses (w/o aperture rings), you'll have to purchase an adapter that lets you adjust the aperture via the adapter (you can find those for around the same price, maybe a couple dollars more).

01-15-2012, 12:34 PM	#3
bimjo Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Pasco, WA Posts: 967	It's a trade off. The lenses work fine, some in stellar fashion. But you need to consider the size and weight of the lens. My Tamron 28-75/2.8 isn't what I ever considered a big lens on my K20/grip. On the NEX-5N it's huge. Not unworkable, but it really dwarfs the camera body. I have a Contax 28-85/3.3-40 that's even worse. My vivitar 24/2.8 w/adapter is about the same size as the kit lens, though quite a bit heavier. Also you need to consider how easily the lens is manually focused. Most AF lenses have pretty bad manual focus ability (compared to manual focus lenses) because of the short throw. Usually not a huge issue unless it's a fast lens being used wide open. Focus peaking/magnification is a huge help here. On the plus side, pretty much any camera lens can be adapted to the NEX series bodies, including the old Pentax 110 lenses, etc. so you aren't limited to one manufacturer/mount for legacy lenses. Anything from $10 to $10,000+ is fair game. You really only have time and a bit of cash to lose. And even if you decide not to use legacy lenses, the NEX series is a pretty nice lightweight travel camera with e-mount lenses. My thoughts after owning the 5N for 2 months, YMMV.