Panasonic 3D1 vs Sony A560

Following is a detailed comparison of the Panasonic 3D1 vs Sony A560, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the 3D1 (12MP) and the A560 (14MP) is pretty close but the 3D1 (1/2.3") and A560 (APS-C) have different sensor sizing.

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The 3D1 was brought out 15 months after the A560 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Sony A560 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a detailed comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the 3D1 scores against the A560 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A560. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery & Sony A560 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic 3D1 offers physical measurements of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Sony A560 has proportions of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") with a weight of 599 grams (1.32 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic 3D1 vs Sony A560 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you use at the time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the 3D1 against the A560.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the 3D1 and A560 is 93 and 64 respectively.

Usually, it is very tough to picture the gap in sensor sizes simply by researching a spec sheet. The picture here may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the 3D1 and A560.

As you can see, both cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The 3D1 due to its smaller sensor is going to make achieving bokeh more difficult and the Sony A560 will provide you with greater detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The younger 3D1 provides an edge in sensor tech.