Panasonic 3D1 vs Sony A300

Lets look much closer at the Panasonic 3D1 vs Sony A300, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the 3D1 (12MP) and the A300 (10MP) is relatively well matched but the 3D1 (1/2.3") and A300 (APS-C) come with different sensor sizes.

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The 3D1 was announced 3 years later than the A300 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Sony A300 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting straight into a thorough comparison, below is a brief summation of how the 3D1 grades versus the A300 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A300. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery and Sony A300 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic 3D1 features outside measurements of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Sony A300 has proportions of 131mm x 99mm x 75mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") with a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic 3D1 vs Sony A300 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using during that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the 3D1 versus the A300.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 3D1 and A300 is 93 and 64 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizing merely by checking technical specs. The visual underneath will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the 3D1 and A300.

As you can tell, the two cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The 3D1 having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF tougher and the Panasonic 3D1 will give you extra detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The more recent 3D1 should have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.