How to Update Sony NEX Firmware: A Step-by-Step Guide
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The quick answer
To update a Sony NEX camera, first check the body firmware version in the camera menu. Then find the update for your exact model on Sony Support, read its computer and power requirements, and follow Sony's installer instructions. Afterward, check the body version again.
In my video, I update a NEX-5N from version 1.00 to 1.02 using a computer and USB cable. I'll walk through that example below. Other NEX models have their own downloads and may require different steps, so follow the instructions on your camera's Sony page even if they differ from my video.
Watch my Sony NEX firmware update walkthrough.
Before you begin
- Identify the exact camera. NEX-5, NEX-5N, NEX-5R and NEX-5T are different models. An updater for one is not a substitute for another.
- Check whether an update is needed. Compare your body version with the applicable versions on Sony's download page. If you already have that version, don't reinstall it just because you found the file.
- Check the computer requirements. Older NEX updaters may list older versions of Windows or macOS. A modern computer is not automatically supported. If Sony doesn't list your system, contact Sony before proceeding.
- Prepare dependable power and the correct USB cable. Follow Sony's power requirements, use the cable specified for your camera and keep the computer from sleeping. An interrupted update can leave a camera unable to operate properly.
- Read every step on Sony's page first. Preparation, memory-card removal, USB mode, connection order and finishing steps can vary by model and operating system.
For more on what updates can change and whether they're worth installing, see my Sony NEX firmware version and benefits guide.
1. Check your camera's firmware version
On the NEX-5N in my video, turn the camera on, press Menu, open Setup, scroll down to Version and select it. The display shows the camera body and its firmware version; it can also show a separate lens version. Write down the body version and model name.
My NEX-5N showed version 1.00 before I started. Sony's NEX-5N version 1.02 update applies to NEX-5N bodies on version 1.01 or earlier. If yours already shows 1.02, that update isn't needed. If your menu is different, use your model's instructions.
2. Find the correct Sony download
Go to Sony Support, search the exact model printed on your camera, and open its downloads. Read the applicable-model information, release notes and system requirements before downloading anything.
For the NEX-5N example, Sony provides separate Windows and Mac pages for version 1.02. Select the one matching a supported computer, and use a different model's own page if you don't have a 5N. The version numbers and changes aren't universal across the NEX line.
In the video I use the Windows updater. Sony's NEX-5N page explains which earlier improvements are included; you don't need to assume that every NEX update adds the same features.
3. Prepare the camera and launch the updater
Read Sony's preparation section and finish those steps before connecting the camera. In my NEX-5N demonstration, I use a compatible USB cable, turn the camera on and select Mass Storage under Setup and USB Connection. I then open the downloaded updater and connect the camera as prompted.
Use the supplied cable when Sony specifies it. The NEX-5N uses a mini USB connection in my demonstration, but don't assume that every NEX camera uses the same connector. Check your model and cable before starting. The update runs from the computer; don't put the computer updater on a memory card and expect this process to start.
4. Check the versions and run the update
Follow the updater and the Sony instructions for your exact download. In my video, the updater recognizes the camera and shows the current and target versions: 1.00 and 1.02. Once the instructions reach the Run step, the update begins.
Keep the camera powered and the USB cable connected throughout the update. Don't close the updater or allow the computer to sleep. An interruption can make the camera unusable.
Sony's NEX-5N Windows instructions include an intermediate step that can sound confusing: when instructed, use the computer's remove-hardware control to stop the USB connection, but leave the cable physically connected, then press the camera's control-wheel center button and continue in the updater. This is different from unplugging the cable. Follow the full instructions on Sony's page for the order and any model-specific steps, rather than relying only on the video.
5. Finish and verify
Wait for the updater to say the process is complete, then follow Sony's exact Finish, disconnect and restart instructions. For the NEX-5N Windows update, Sony says to click Finish, stop the USB connection using the computer's remove-hardware control, disconnect the cable, turn off the camera, briefly remove and reconnect its power source, then turn it on.
Return to Menu → Setup → Version and check the body version. On the NEX-5N, 1.02 confirms this specific update. If the result differs from Sony's expected version or the updater reports a problem, consult the model's instructions or Sony Support before attempting recovery.
Troubleshooting before an update starts
- Camera not detected: Check that you're using the cable and USB connection mode specified by Sony, and that you've followed the instructions' connection order. Sony's NEX-5N Windows page suggests reconnecting or trying another computer USB port when the camera screen does not turn off on connection. Do this before the update is running, not during it.
- No compatible computer: Check the operating systems on the correct Sony download page. Don't assume compatibility mode, an adapter or an unsupported operating system will work; ask Sony for an appropriate option.
- Already on the listed version: An update is not needed. Follow Sony's instructions for safely exiting the updater.
- Update interrupted or an error appears: Don't guess at a recovery sequence. Check the exact update page and contact Sony Support if its instructions don't resolve the problem.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the NEX-5N update on a NEX-5R, NEX-6 or NEX-7?
No. The 5N updater is for the applicable NEX-5N body. Find and follow the Sony download for your exact model, including the correct operating system.
Do I need to update if my NEX-5N already shows version 1.02?
No. Sony says its NEX-5N version 1.02 update is for bodies on 1.01 or earlier. Check the body version rather than the lens version.
Will an update improve photo or video quality?
Not necessarily. The changes depend on the camera and the release. Read the exact Sony release notes rather than expecting every update to improve image quality.
Will this work on a current Windows PC or Mac?
Don't assume so. These are older cameras and some updater pages list older operating systems. Check the requirements for your exact camera and installer, and ask Sony if your system isn't listed.
Keep reading
Watch more camera guides on FoxTailWhipz on YouTube.