Panasonic ZR1 vs Sony A330

Following is a extended analysis of the Panasonic ZR1 versus Sony A330, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZR1 (12MP) and the A330 (10MP) is pretty close but the ZR1 (1/2.3") and A330 (APS-C) use totally different sensor size.

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The ZR1 was launched 3 months after the A330 and they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera and the Sony A330 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving in to a full comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the ZR1 grades vs the A330 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A330. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic ZR1 Gallery and Sony A330 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZR1 has got external dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Sony A330 has proportions of 128mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.8") with a weight of 529 grams (1.17 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZR1 versus Sony A330 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at the time. Below is the front view over all size comparison of the ZR1 against the A330.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZR1 and A330 is 94 and 67 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to see the difference in sensor sizes only by looking through specs. The pic underneath may provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZR1 and A330.

All in all, both the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The ZR1 because of its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field trickier and the Panasonic ZR1 will provide you with greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures a little more aggressively.