Panasonic FZ80 vs Panasonic LX3

Below, we will be reviewing the Panasonic FZ80 and Panasonic LX3, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are designed by Panasonic. There is a crucial difference among the image resolutions of the FZ80 (18MP) and LX3 (10MP) and the FZ80 (1/2.3") and LX3 (1/1.63") enjoy different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FZ80 was launched 8 years after the LX3 which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic LX3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the FZ80 matches up versus the LX3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic FZ80 Gallery and Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

In case you're planning to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ80 has got physical measurements of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") and a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs) while the Panasonic LX3 has dimensions of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FZ80 and Panasonic LX3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are using during that time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the FZ80 against the LX3.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ80 and LX3 is 63 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to picture the contrast in sensor dimensions just by viewing specifications. The pic here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the FZ80 and LX3.

Plainly, both of those cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The FZ80 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Panasonic FZ80 will render more detail utilizing its extra 8MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures much more aggressively. The more recent FZ80 should have an advantage in sensor innovation.