Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony RX1

Here, we will be contrasting the Panasonic ZR3 versus Sony RX1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There exists a big gap among the resolutions of the ZR3 (14MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the ZR3 (1/2.3") and RX1 (Full frame) offer different sensor measurements.

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The ZR3 was unveiled 4 years prior to the RX1 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZR3 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a in depth comparison, here is a concise view of how the ZR3 scores against the RX1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery and Sony RX1 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry around your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic ZR3 features external dimensions 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 RX1 has specifications of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") along with a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZR3 versus Sony RX1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have attached at the time. Here is a front view size comparison of the ZR3 vs the RX1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZR3 and RX1 is 94 and 79 respectively.

Quite often, its hard to imagine the difference in sensor sizes simply by viewing a spec sheet. The picture below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZR3 and RX1.

Clearly, the 2 cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The ZR3 using its smaller sensor is going to make getting bokeh more challenging and the Sony RX1 will provide you with greater detail having an extra 10 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures way more aggressively. The more aged ZR3 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.