Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony HX50V

Its time to examine more in depth at the Panasonic ZR3 and Sony HX50V, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Panasonic and Sony. There is a sizeable difference among the image resolutions of the ZR3 (14MP) and HX50V (20MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZR3 was introduced 4 years prior to the HX50V and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the ZR3 grades vs the HX50V for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50V. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery and Sony HX50V Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera regularly, you will want to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZR3 comes with external measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Sony HX50V has dimensions of 108mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") having a weight of 272 grams (0.60 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZR3 and Sony HX50V in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilising at the time. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the ZR3 and the HX50V.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the ZR3 and HX50V is 94 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to envision the difference in sensor sizing merely by checking out specifications. The graphic underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZR3 and HX50V.

To sum up, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Sony HX50V to provide more detail using its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The older ZR3 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.