Panasonic ZR1 vs Sony WX50

Following is a extended review of the Panasonic ZR1 and Sony WX50, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by brands Panasonic and Sony. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the ZR1 (12MP) and WX50 (16MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The ZR1 was announced 3 years prior to the WX50 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a in depth comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the ZR1 grades versus the WX50 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX50. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR1 Gallery and Sony WX50 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry around your camera often, you will need to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic ZR1 has physical dimensions 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 WX50 has specifications of 92mm x 52mm x 19mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.7") and a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZR1 and Sony WX50 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at the time. Below is a front view size comparison of the ZR1 compared to the WX50.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the ZR1 and WX50 is 94 and 96 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to see the difference in sensor sizes just by seeing specs. The pic underneath should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZR1 and WX50.

All in all, both cameras come with the identical sensor size but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Sony WX50 to provide greater detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more aged ZR1 will be behind in sensor technology.