The NEX-F3 was a fine mirrorless camera by most accounts, but its larger footprint left us hoping for a next-gen offering more in line with its predecessor, the NEX-C3 -- a tried-and-true shooter that many Engadget staffers still turn to for review photos and trade shows, thanks to its consistent performance and light weight.

ENGADGET

Posing next to 24mm and 50mm lenses, the NEX-6 looks to be very much the in-between camera we suspected it was, without as much dedicated control as the NEX-7 but still carrying an electronic viewfinder, a pop-up flash and a dedicated function key near the shutter release.

ENGADGET: Sony NEX-6 spotted in the wild, electronic viewfinder and mode dial in tow

Beyond that, the SD card slot has been moved to the side, rather than being forced next the battery slot on the bottom like most NEX shooters.

ENGADGET: Sony's NEX-3N and A58 cameras make an in-person appearance, we go hands-on