Nikon L21 vs Panasonic LX3

Below is a in-depth review of the Nikon L21 and Panasonic LX3, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the L21 (8MP) and the LX3 (10MP) is very well matched but the L21 (1/2.3") and LX3 (1/1.63") posses totally different sensor sizes.

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The L21 was unveiled 16 months later than the LX3 making them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a detailed comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the L21 matches up against the LX3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix L21 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The full galleries are available at Nikon L21 Gallery & Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and measurements. The Nikon L21 offers external dimensions of 92mm x 67mm x 28mm (3.6" x 2.6" x 1.1") having a weight of 169 grams (0.37 lbs) and the Panasonic LX3 has proportions of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Check out the Nikon L21 and Panasonic LX3 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the L21 and the LX3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the L21 and LX3 is 93 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to see the gap between sensor measurements merely by checking specs. The visual underneath will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the L21 and LX3.

All in all, both the cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The L21 with its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Panasonic LX3 will give you greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos more aggressively. The more modern L21 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.