Panasonic SZ3 vs Sony HX99

Here, we will be looking at the Panasonic SZ3 and Sony HX99, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the SZ3 (16MP) and the HX99 (18MP) is pretty similar but the SZ3 (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) offer totally different sensor size.

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The SZ3 was brought out 6 years earlier than the HX99 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise summation of how the SZ3 grades vs the HX99 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ3 Gallery and Sony HX99 Gallery.

In case you're intending to lug around your camera frequently, you are going to need to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ3 provides exterior measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Sony HX99 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") having a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic SZ3 and Sony HX99 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use at that time. Below is a front view scale comparison of the SZ3 versus the HX99.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ3 and HX99 is 96 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to visualise the gap between sensor measurements purely by reviewing a spec sheet. The graphic below will give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ3 and HX99.

Clearly, both of these cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The SZ3 because of its bigger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field easier and the Sony HX99 will deliver extra detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs a good deal more aggressively. The older SZ3 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.