Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony HX30V

Here, we will be reviewing the Panasonic ZR3 and Sony HX30V, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap between the sensor resolutions of the ZR3 (14MP) and HX30V (18MP) but both cameras boast the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The ZR3 was revealed 3 years before the HX30V and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a full comparison, here is a short summation of how the ZR3 grades against the HX30V when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery and Sony HX30V Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZR3 features external measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Sony HX30V has proportions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZR3 and Sony HX30V in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the ZR3 against the HX30V.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZR3 and HX30V is 94 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to envision the difference between sensor sizing only by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the ZR3 and HX30V.

Clearly, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Sony HX30V to resolve more detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures way more aggressively. The older ZR3 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.