Panasonic 3D1 vs Sony A200

Here is a detailed overview of the Panasonic 3D1 vs Sony A200, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the 3D1 (12MP) and the A200 (10MP) is very similar but the 3D1 (1/2.3") and A200 (APS-C) enjoy different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The 3D1 was released 3 years later than the A200 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Sony A200 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a short highlight of how the 3D1 grades vs the A200 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A200. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery & Sony A200 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera regularly, you will want to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic 3D1 has got external dimensions of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") having a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Sony A200 has sizing of 131mm x 99mm x 71mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 572 grams (1.26 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic 3D1 vs Sony A200 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Here is the front view dimensions comparison of the 3D1 compared to the A200.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 3D1 and A200 is 93 and 66 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to picture the gap between sensor sizing only by reading a spec sheet. The graphic underneath should offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the 3D1 and A200.

As you can see, the two cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The 3D1 due to its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF more difficult and the Panasonic 3D1 will offer you greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images a little more aggressively. The more recent 3D1 provides a benefit in sensor technology.