Panasonic ZR3 vs Sony A37

Lets look more in depth at the Panasonic ZR3 and Sony A37, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the ZR3 (14MP) and the A37 (16MP) is fairly close but the ZR3 (1/2.3") and A37 (APS-C) boast different sensor dimensions.

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The ZR3 was introduced 3 years prior to the A37 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZR3 being a Compact camera and the Sony A37 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief overview of how the ZR3 grades vs the A37 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 and Sony SLT-A37. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery and Sony A37 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera frequently, you are going to need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZR3 provides outside dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Sony A37 has specifications of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") with a weight of 506 grams (1.12 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZR3 and Sony A37 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the ZR3 compared to the A37.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZR3 and A37 is 94 and 67 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizes purely by looking through specs. The image underneath will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZR3 and A37.

All in all, both the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The ZR3 using its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF harder and the Sony A37 will result in greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos more aggressively. The more aged ZR3 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.