Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony NEX-6

Its time to look a little more in depth at the Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony NEX-6, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZR3 (14MP) and the NEX-6 (16MP) is very close but the ZR3 (1/2.3") and NEX-6 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The ZR3 was introduced 4 years earlier than the NEX-6 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZR3 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-6 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting in to a complete comparison, below is a simple summary of how the ZR3 grades against the NEX-6 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 & Sony Alpha NEX-6. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery & Sony NEX-6 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera, you should factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZR3 features physical measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Sony NEX-6 has sizing of 120mm x 67mm x 43mm (4.7" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 345 grams (0.76 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony NEX-6 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the ZR3 against the NEX-6.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZR3 and NEX-6 is 94 and 85 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to see the contrast in sensor sizing purely by researching a spec sheet. The graphic here should provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the ZR3 and NEX-6.

Clearly, each of these cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ZR3 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Sony NEX-6 will render greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos far more aggressively. The older ZR3 will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.