Panasonic ZS3 vs Sony HX5

On this page, we are reviewing the Panasonic ZS3 vs Sony HX5, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS3 (10MP) and the HX5 (10MP) is fairly similar but the ZS3 (1/2.3") and HX5 (1/2.4") boast totally different sensor measurements.

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The ZS3 was unveiled 13 months prior to the HX5 making them a generation away from one another. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a full comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the ZS3 matches up against the HX5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS3 Gallery and Sony HX5 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS3 features external dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Sony HX5 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS3 vs Sony HX5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the ZS3 against the HX5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS3 and HX5 is 91 and 92 respectively.

Quite often, it's difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizes simply by going over specs. The pic below may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS3 and HX5.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras provide the same megapixel count but not the same sensor sizes. The ZS3 comes with the larger sensor which will make getting shallow depth of field simpler. The more aged ZS3 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.