Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony W800

The following is a thorough assessment of the Panasonic ZR3 versus Sony W800, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by companies Panasonic and Sony. There exists a huge gap between the image resolutions of the ZR3 (14MP) and W800 (20MP) but they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The ZR3 was brought out 5 years before the W800 which is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the ZR3 grades versus the W800 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W800. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery and Sony W800 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to travel with your camera, you will have to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic ZR3 has got 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) whilst the Sony W800 has specifications of 97mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.8") having a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic ZR3 versus Sony W800 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the ZR3 and the W800.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZR3 and W800 is 94 and 96 respectively.

Normally, it can be tough to see the difference between sensor dimensions simply by going over specs. The picture underneath will give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the ZR3 and W800.

All in all, both the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Sony W800 to offer greater detail having its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more aged ZR3 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.