Panasonic LZ30 vs Sony RX10 III

The following is a in-depth analysis of the Panasonic LZ30 versus Sony RX10 III, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Large Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the LZ30 (16MP) and the RX10 III (20MP) is very similar but the LZ30 (1/2.3") and RX10 III (1") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The LZ30 was manufactured 4 years prior to the RX10 III which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature the same body design (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before delving into a detailed comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the LZ30 grades versus the RX10 III with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ30 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic LZ30 Gallery and Sony RX10 III Gallery.

If you are intending to travel with your camera often, you should take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic LZ30 has outer measurements of 124mm x 84mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 3.6") with a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) and the Sony RX10 III has measurements of 133mm x 94mm x 127mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 5.0") and a weight of 1051 grams (2.32 lbs).

See the Panasonic LZ30 versus Sony RX10 III in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you select during that time. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the LZ30 vs the RX10 III.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the LZ30 and RX10 III is 66 and 53 respectively.

Typically, it is very tough to see the contrast between sensor dimensions only by going over technical specs. The image below should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the LZ30 and RX10 III.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The LZ30 featuring a tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Sony RX10 III will offer greater detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The more aged LZ30 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.