Panasonic S1 vs Sony NEX-C3

Here is a extended overview of the Panasonic S1 vs Sony NEX-C3, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There is a considerable difference between the resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and NEX-C3 (16MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and NEX-C3 (APS-C) use totally different sensor size.

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The S1 was brought out 7 years later than the NEX-C3 and that is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony NEX-C3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting through a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the S1 grades against the NEX-C3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 & Sony Alpha NEX-C3. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic S1 Gallery & Sony NEX-C3 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera regularly, you have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic S1 comes with external measurements of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") having a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-C3 has proportions of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic S1 vs Sony NEX-C3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have attached at the time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the S1 versus the NEX-C3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and NEX-C3 is 54 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing only by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the S1 and NEX-C3.

Clearly, each of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The S1 because of its larger sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic S1 will give you more detail having its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The fresher S1 will have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.