Panasonic ZR1 vs Sony TX30

On this page, we will be evaluating the Panasonic ZR1 and Sony TX30, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Ultracompact by brands Panasonic and Sony. There is a large difference between the image resolutions of the ZR1 (12MP) and TX30 (18MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The ZR1 was brought out 5 years prior to the TX30 which is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera and the Sony TX30 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the ZR1 scores versus the TX30 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX30. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic ZR1 Gallery & Sony TX30 Gallery.

If you are looking to travel with your camera often, you should think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZR1 has got physical measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Sony TX30 has proportions of 96mm x 59mm x 15mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.6") having a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZR1 and Sony TX30 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with during that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the ZR1 compared to the TX30.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the ZR1 and TX30 is 94 and 96 respectively.

Usually, it's hard to imagine the gap between sensor dimensions only by looking at a spec sheet. The pic underneath might provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the ZR1 and TX30.

As you can see, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You can expect the Sony TX30 to give you more detail having its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures more aggressively. The more aged ZR1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.