Panasonic 3D1 vs Sony NEX-3

Here, we will be matching up the Panasonic 3D1 and Sony NEX-3, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the 3D1 (12MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is pretty close but the 3D1 (1/2.3") and NEX-3 (APS-C) provide different sensor size.

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The 3D1 was brought out 18 months after the NEX-3 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a complete comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the 3D1 matches up versus the NEX-3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry around your camera frequently, you need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic 3D1 features outer measurements of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3 has measurements of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

See the Panasonic 3D1 and Sony NEX-3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Following is a front view size comparison of the 3D1 compared to the NEX-3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the 3D1 and NEX-3 is 93 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, its difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizes only by viewing a spec sheet. The image below might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the 3D1 and NEX-3.

Clearly, each of the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The 3D1 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Sony NEX-3 will render extra detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots way more aggressively. The younger 3D1 provides an edge when it comes to sensor tech.