Panasonic XS1 vs Sony NEX-C3

Here is a in depth analysis of the Panasonic XS1 vs Sony NEX-C3, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the XS1 (16MP) and the NEX-C3 (16MP) is relatively similar but the XS1 (1/2.3") and NEX-C3 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The XS1 was announced 17 months later than the NEX-C3 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic XS1 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-C3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief summary of how the XS1 matches up vs the NEX-C3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1 and Sony Alpha NEX-C3. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic XS1 Gallery and Sony NEX-C3 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera regularly, you will need to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic XS1 provides outside dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") having a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs) and the Sony NEX-C3 has specifications of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic XS1 vs Sony NEX-C3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using during that time. The following is the front view over all size comparison of the XS1 vs the NEX-C3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the XS1 and NEX-C3 is 97 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing just by reading specifications. The graphic here will help give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the XS1 and NEX-C3.

Plainly, the two cameras posses the exact same megapixels albeit not the same sensor sizing. The XS1 has got the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallow DOF more difficult. The fresher XS1 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.