Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony W730

In this write-up, we are analyzing the Panasonic ZR3 and Sony W730, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZR3 (14MP) and the W730 (16MP) is very well matched and they feature the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The ZR3 was unveiled 3 years prior to the W730 and that is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a simple overview of how the ZR3 matches up vs the W730 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W730. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery and Sony W730 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZR3 has outside dimensions 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 W730 has dimensions of 93mm x 52mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.0" x 0.9") along with a weight of 122 grams (0.27 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZR3 and Sony W730 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have at that moment. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the ZR3 vs the W730.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZR3 and W730 is 94 and 96 respectively.

Quite often, it is very tough to see the gap between sensor measurements merely by looking at a spec sheet. The visual below should give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZR3 and W730.

Clearly, each of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Sony W730 to give you extra detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images a little more aggressively. The older ZR3 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.