Panasonic FZ300 vs Sony HX1

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic FZ300 versus Sony HX1, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There exists a crucial gap among the image resolutions of the FZ300 (12MP) and HX1 (9MP) and the FZ300 (1/2.3") and HX1 (1/2.4") boast totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FZ300 was introduced 6 years later than the HX1 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before delving right into a complete comparison, here is a short summation of how the FZ300 matches up versus the HX1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic FZ300 Gallery and Sony HX1 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ300 has external dimensions of 132mm x 92mm x 117mm (5.2" x 3.6" x 4.6") having a weight of 691 grams (1.52 lbs) while the Sony HX1 has dimensions of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs).

See the Panasonic FZ300 versus Sony HX1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the FZ300 vs the HX1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FZ300 and HX1 is 59 and 67 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizing purely by checking out a spec sheet. The visual underneath should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ300 and HX1.

Clearly, both the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The FZ300 using its larger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Panasonic FZ300 will provide more detail using its extra 3 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The newer FZ300 will have an edge in sensor tech.