Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W730: A Hands-On Compact Camera Shootout

When it comes to small sensor compacts that blend portability with basic versatility, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of options. Today, I’m diving deep into a head-to-head comparison between the Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 (or just the Panasonic 3D1) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W730 (Sony W730). These two modest compacts bear many similarities on paper but hold surprisingly divergent real-world experiences.

Both cameras launched in the early 2010s with budget-conscious buyers in mind, but which one merits your hard-earned cash in 2024? Based on an extensive hands-on evaluation - covering sensor tech, ergonomics, AF performance, and photographic application - let me walk you through their strengths and shortcomings, equipped with sample images and performance breakdowns along the way.

Size, Control, and Handling: The First Impressions Matter

Size and ergonomics often dictate how naturally a camera melds into your creative workflow, especially for street or travel shooters who don’t want to lug around a bulky rig.

The Panasonic 3D1 and Sony W730 share the compact body archetype, but Panasonic’s 3D1 is a bit chunkier and heavier at 193g versus Sony’s svelte 122g. Dimensions tell a similar story: Panasonic is 108x58x24mm, whereas Sony trims down to 93x52x22mm. This weight and size difference really shows when shooting for extended periods, especially for users with smaller hands or those prioritizing pocketability.

In terms of design, the Panasonic sports a more aggressive grip, which encourages steady handling, while the Sony goes for sleek minimalism.

Control-wise, neither camera offers manual exposure settings - both are very much “point and shoot” experiences that rely heavily on automation. The Panasonic edges out with a larger touchscreen (3.5-inch vs 2.7-inch on the Sony), featuring an anti-reflective coating that enhances visibility outdoors. However, neither has a viewfinder, which might dull usability in bright conditions.

Bottom line for handling: If you want a slightly more substantial feel with a tactile touchscreen, Panasonic’s your pick. For those focused on ultra-compact, pocket-friendly form factor, Sony leads.

Sensor and Image Quality: Crunching the Numbers and Pixels

Both cameras employ a 1/2.3” sensor size, standard fare in small compacts, but here’s where things get interesting.

Panasonic equips the 3D1 with a 12MP CMOS sensor, whereas Sony’s W730 boasts a slightly higher resolution 16MP CCD sensor. Higher megapixels don’t always translate to better image quality, especially on small sensors where pixel density affects noise and dynamic range.

Dynamic range and low-light performance often hinge on sensor technology. Here, the CMOS in Panasonic generally holds an edge for better noise control and wider dynamic range compared to the older CCD architecture in the Sony. Despite Sony’s higher megapixels, its low-light noise can be more pronounced.

In real-life tests, Panasonic’s images present cleaner shadows and more natural color gradations, especially in dim indoor or evening scenes, thanks to superior noise algorithms and a max ISO of 6400 (compared to Sony’s 3200).

For landscape shots, dynamic range is critical to retrieve details in highlights and shadows. Panasonic’s sensor passed the test, effectively preserving sky textures and shadow details, while Sony’s files occasionally clipped highlights under harsh sunlight.

That said, Sony’s 16MP resolution provides more cropping freedom, which might appeal if you don’t mind sacrificing some noise performance.

Lens Range and Optical Performance: Zoom Shootout

A crucial aspect for travel and wildlife photographers - how much reach and sharpness does each camera offer?

Panasonic’s 3D1 sports a 25-100mm equivalent zoom (4x optical zoom) with max apertures ranging from f/3.9 to f/5.7. By contrast, Sony W730 stretches further with a 25-224mm equivalent zoom (an impressive 9x optical zoom), with max apertures of f/3.3 to f/6.3.

That extra reach on Sony may seem like a no-brainer for telephoto enthusiasts or casual birdwatchers, but keep in mind the tradeoffs: longer zoom ranges on small sensors often come with softer optics and slower max apertures, which means less light and more noise.

On my test shoots, Panasonic’s shorter zoom delivered consistently sharper images across the frame and better contrast - ideal for portrait and street photography where edge-to-edge clarity is vital. Sony’s long zoom, while versatile, showed softness and occasional chromatic aberration at the telephoto end, which dulls critical detail for demanding shooters.

Both cameras have a close-focus macro of 5cm, allowing decent close-ups, but none support focus bracketing or stacking - limiting versatility for macro aficionados.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking Essentials

Fast, reliable autofocus is a non-negotiable for sports, wildlife, and event photography.

Panasonic’s 3D1 touts a 23-point contrast-detection autofocus system with continuous, single, and tracking modes, along with face detection. Sony, conversely, doesn’t publicize a specific number of focus points, but it does offer single AF and tracking with center-weighted metering and face detection as well.

In practical terms, I found Panasonic’s autofocus quicker to lock, especially in live view, and more consistent with tracking moving subjects in daylight. Continuous AF on Sony sometimes hesitated, resulting in lost frames during fast action bursts. Neither camera offers advanced features like phase detection or animal eye AF, which can be a sore spot for wildlife shooters.

Both cameras allow autofocus via touchscreens, but Panasonic’s larger, higher resolution display made the experience easier and more accurate.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Speeds: Nail the Action Shots?

Neither camera is designed for high-speed shooting sports or wildlife action.

Panasonic 3D1 does not list continuous shooting specs, while Sony’s W730 manages a modest 1 fps burst - which is fairly sluggish. Maximum shutter speed is a bit faster on Sony (1/1600s max) compared to Panasonic’s 1/1300s.

The lack of higher frame rates limits both devices for rapid action sequences, but that’s expected given their entry-level compact positioning.

Video Capabilities: Yawn or Useful?

Video on compacts has become an essential feature for hybrid shooters.

Panasonic’s 3D1 records Full HD 1080p video at 30 or 60 fps, and supports MPEG-4, AVCHD, and Motion JPEG formats. Sony’s W730 maxes out at 720p HD (1280 x 720) at 30 fps with MPEG-4 and AVCHD formats.

If you want to shoot decent quality video for casual social media clips or family movies, Panasonic clearly wins here - its Full HD at 60 fps is a big bonus for smoother playback and some slow motion effects.

Neither camera offers microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio control, nor do they offer 4K recording - so don’t expect pro-level videography from either.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Both cameras lack environmental sealing, waterproofing, and durability certifications. These cameras are aimed at casual shooters and travelers who won’t bombard them with harsh conditions.

If weather resistance or ruggedness is a priority for outdoor, nature, or adventure shooters, neither should be your everyday carry. Investing in a more robust model will be required.

Display and User Interface: Touch and Glide

The Panasonic’s 3.5-inch touchscreen with AR coating significantly outclasses Sony’s smaller 2.7-inch display when it comes to composing shots in bright daylight and reviewing images. The touch responsiveness on Panasonic was more enjoyable, making quick menu tweaks and focusing adjustments easier.

Sony’s screen feels cramped, especially compared to the larger, more vibrant Panasonic panel. Neither camera has a viewfinder (electronic or optical), which could disappoint users hoping for traditional framing methods - particularly outdoors.

Battery Life and Storage

Sony’s W730 boasts a superior 240-shot battery life compared to Panasonic’s 200, slightly extending your shooting day on a single charge. However, the smaller battery size in Sony likely explains its lighter overall weight.

Storage-wise, both cameras utilize a single card slot compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. Sony adds support for Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo formats, which might be valuable if you already have those cards.

Connectivity and Extras

Neither camera offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, or GPS. This absence of wireless connectivity limits immediate sharing capabilities - annoying for social shooters used to instant transfers.

Panasonic edges out slightly with an HDMI output, allowing for HDMI connection to external displays - a nice bonus for family movie nights or casual presentations.

Real-World Photography Tests: Who Shines in Each Genre?

Panasonic 3D1 front Panasonic 3D1 screen back Sony W730 front Sony W730 screen back

To bring the specs into context, I tested both cameras across major photography disciplines:

• Portraits: Panasonic rendered skin tones slightly warmer and more natural with smooth bokeh at 100mm equivalent. Sony’s longer zoom lacked the creamy background blur but delivered good detail at shorter focal lengths.
• Landscapes: Panasonic’s better dynamic range helped retain highlight and shadow detail on challenging scenes. Sony’s resolution provided more crop flexibility but at the cost of increased noise in shadows.
• Wildlife: Sony’s extra 9x zoom tempted me, but autofocus lag and softness at full zoom diminished image quality. Panasonic’s faster AF with shorter zoom made for easier tack-sharp shots.
• Sports: Neither camera was ideal due to slow burst rates. Panasonic’s quicker AF gave it a marginal edge.
• Street: Sony’s light weight and compact size won when stealth was essential, but Panasonic’s larger screen made framing easier.
• Macro: Both limited to 5cm with no focus stacking - adequate for beginners but basic for enthusiasts.
• Night/Astro: Panasonic’s higher ISO ceiling and improved noise control helped capture more usable low-light images.
• Video: Panasonic’s Full HD 1080p 60fps recording and HDMI out made it a better multimedia tool.
• Travel: Sony’s smaller size, lighter weight, and longer zoom made it ideal for pack-and-go convenience, while Panasonic required a bit more shoulder space but offered higher image quality.
• Professional Work: Neither camera is suitable for professional-grade output due to limited manual control, no RAW support, and modest sensor specs.

Performance Scores and Usability Ratings

My scoring criteria (image quality, autofocus, handling, video, and value) gave Panasonic a narrow overall win, mostly driven by stronger imaging capabilities and video specs.

Sony’s crown remained in size/weight and zoom flexibility but lost ground elsewhere.

Genre-Specific Recommendations

• Casual Everyday Shooters: Panasonic 3D1 - better all-around imaging, especially if you appreciate the touchscreen and video.
• Budget-Conscious Travelers: Sony W730 - excellent zoom reach in a featherweight frame, perfect for carry-everywhere convenience.
• Video Hobbyists: Panasonic 3D1 - capable of HD 60fps video with HDMI output.
• Portrait and Landscape Enthusiasts: Panasonic for better colors, dynamics, and facial recognition.
• Telephoto Needs / Nature Observation: Sony W730 for longer reach but with compromises.
• Action and Sports: Neither excels, but Panasonic’s autofocus is marginally better.

Pros and Cons Overview

Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1

Pros:

• Larger 3.5” touchscreen with AR coating
• 12MP CMOS sensor with better low-light and dynamic range
• Full HD 1080p @ 60fps video recording
• Optical image stabilization and face detection autofocus
• HDMI output for external displays

Cons:

• Heavier and bulkier than Sony W730
• Shorter 4x optical zoom
• No wireless connectivity
• No manual exposure controls or RAW support

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W730

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design
• 9x optical zoom (25-224mm equivalent)
• Slightly longer battery life (240 shots)
• Supports multiple storage card formats
• Good for casual travel due to size and zoom reach

Cons:

• Older CCD sensor with more noise at high ISO
• Lower-resolution 2.7” screen
• No HDMI out or Full HD 1080p video
• Slower autofocus and modest burst rate
• No wireless or advanced features

Final Verdict: Which Compact Camera Should You Choose?

Both the Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W730 cater to casual shooters who prioritize ease of use and portability. Yet their differing strengths mean your picking decision boils down to what’s more important to you.

If image quality, video capability, and touchscreen usability top your list - and you can handle a slightly bigger, heavier body - the Panasonic 3D1 remains the superior overall performer. It’s ideal for photographers wanting better colors, improved low-light shots, and decent HD video without breaking the bank.

Conversely, if your primary goal is maximum zoom range packed in an ultra-light form factor for travel or casual snaps, and you’re willing to trade off some image fidelity and slower video specs, the Sony W730 is a shrewd value pick. Its extended zoom opens up chances for telephoto shots an everyday compact otherwise couldn’t manage.

Ultimately, these compact cameras won’t replace your professional gear or serve demanding shooting needs, but they balance budget and function for casual enthusiasts who prize simplicity and portability.

Whichever way you lean, you now have a clear picture from someone who’s rolled their clubs (and thumbs) through thousands of cameras - taking these two small compacts through paces they were designed for, and a few they weren’t.

Happy shooting!

If you’re strictly after professional grade files, RAW recording, or highly customizable controls, I’d recommend stepping up to a mirrorless or DSLR system with larger sensors. But for a casual, no-fuss pocket companion? Panasonic 3D1 and Sony W730 remain respectable options worth your consideration.

Thanks for reading - feel free to reach out with questions or your own experiences with these models!