Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony HX100V

Below, we are reviewing the Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony HX100V, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the ZR3 (14MP) and the HX100V (16MP) is very well matched and they possess the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The ZR3 was manufactured 21 months earlier than the HX100V making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZR3 being a Compact camera and the Sony HX100V being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a brief summation of how the ZR3 grades against the HX100V with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX100V. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery & Sony HX100V Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera, you have to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic ZR3 provides exterior measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Sony HX100V has specifications of 122mm x 87mm x 93mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 3.7") having a weight of 577 grams (1.27 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony HX100V in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you choose during that time. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the ZR3 compared to the HX100V.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the ZR3 and HX100V is 94 and 66 respectively.

Often, it's hard to see the contrast between sensor measurements just by looking at technical specs. The visual here might give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the ZR3 and HX100V.

As you can tell, both of those cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Sony HX100V to resolve more detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The older ZR3 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.