Panasonic FH20 vs Sony NEX-3N

In this article, we are contrasting the Panasonic FH20 versus Sony NEX-3N, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FH20 (14MP) and the NEX-3N (16MP) is fairly comparable but the FH20 (1/2.3") and NEX-3N (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The FH20 was launched 4 years prior to the NEX-3N which is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH20 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a thorough comparison, below is a short overview of how the FH20 scores against the NEX-3N with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 and Sony Alpha NEX-3N. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FH20 Gallery and Sony NEX-3N Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera often, you'll need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FH20 comes with exterior measurements of 100mm x 56mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") along with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-3N has proportions of 110mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.4") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FH20 versus Sony NEX-3N in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the FH20 vs the NEX-3N.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FH20 and NEX-3N is 93 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to see the difference in sensor dimensions purely by going through a spec sheet. The image underneath might give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the FH20 and NEX-3N.

As you can see, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The FH20 due to its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF harder and the Sony NEX-3N will show greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics far more aggressively. The more aged FH20 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.