Panasonic ZS30 vs Sony NEX-C3

Below, we will be looking at the Panasonic ZS30 vs Sony NEX-C3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the ZS30 (18MP) and the NEX-C3 (16MP) is pretty similar but the ZS30 (1/2.3") and NEX-C3 (APS-C) come with different sensor size.

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The ZS30 was launched 17 months later than the NEX-C3 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS30 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-C3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting through a in depth comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the ZS30 scores against the NEX-C3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30 and Sony Alpha NEX-C3. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS30 Gallery and Sony NEX-C3 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS30 comes with physical measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-C3 has proportions of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS30 vs Sony NEX-C3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the ZS30 compared to the NEX-C3.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS30 and NEX-C3 is 92 and 91 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to picture the gap between sensor measurements simply by reviewing technical specs. The graphic here will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS30 and NEX-C3.

As you can tell, the two cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The ZS30 due to its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF tougher and the Panasonic ZS30 will offer more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots much more aggressively. The fresher ZS30 provides a benefit with regard to sensor tech.