Panasonic LF1 vs Sony W230

Here, we are evaluating the Panasonic LF1 versus Sony W230, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the LF1 (12MP) and the W230 (12MP) is very well matched but the LF1 (1/1.7") and W230 (1/2.3") offer different sensor size.

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The LF1 was brought out 4 years later than the W230 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple view of how the LF1 scores vs the W230 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LF1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W230. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic LF1 Gallery & Sony W230 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera often, you'll have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic LF1 has external measurements of 103mm x 62mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs) whilst the Sony W230 has sizing of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic LF1 versus Sony W230 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you use at that moment. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the LF1 vs the W230.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the LF1 and W230 is 92 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizing only by checking technical specs. The graphic here might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the LF1 and W230.

As you can tell, each of these cameras feature the identical megapixels but different sensor sizing. The LF1 contains the larger sensor which is going to make achieving shallower depth of field simpler. The younger LF1 should have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.