Panasonic ZS15 vs Sony NEX-F3

Let's examine more closely at the Panasonic ZS15 versus Sony NEX-F3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the ZS15 (12MP) and NEX-F3 (16MP) and the ZS15 (1/2.3") and NEX-F3 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The ZS15 was brought out very close to the NEX-F3 which means that they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-F3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight into a detailed comparison, below is a concise summary of how the ZS15 matches up vs the NEX-F3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15 and Sony Alpha NEX-F3. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic ZS15 Gallery and Sony NEX-F3 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS15 offers external dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs) and the Sony NEX-F3 has proportions of 117mm x 67mm x 42mm (4.6" x 2.6" x 1.7") and a weight of 314 grams (0.69 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS15 versus Sony NEX-F3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the ZS15 and the NEX-F3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS15 and NEX-F3 is 92 and 86 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing just by looking at a spec sheet. The visual below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS15 and NEX-F3.

Clearly, the 2 cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The ZS15 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallow DOF more difficult and the Sony NEX-F3 will give you greater detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos a little more aggressively.