Panasonic FZ80 vs Ricoh CX3

On this page, we are reviewing the Panasonic FZ80 versus Ricoh CX3, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Ricoh. There exists a crucial gap among the sensor resolutions of the FZ80 (18MP) and CX3 (10MP) but both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The FZ80 was announced 6 years after the CX3 which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Ricoh CX3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go into a in depth comparison, here is a short summary of how the FZ80 grades vs the CX3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80 and Ricoh CX3. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic FZ80 Gallery and Ricoh CX3 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FZ80 has physical dimensions of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") with a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs) and the Ricoh CX3 has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FZ80 versus Ricoh CX3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the FZ80 and the CX3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FZ80 and CX3 is 63 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it is very tough to imagine the contrast in sensor sizes purely by researching specifications. The picture here will give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ80 and CX3.

Plainly, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You should expect to see the Panasonic FZ80 to result in more detail with its extra 8MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images more aggressively. The newer FZ80 provides an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.