Panasonic ZS30 vs Sony RX1

Below, we are analyzing the Panasonic ZS30 versus Sony RX1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There exists a noticeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the ZS30 (18MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the ZS30 (1/2.3") and RX1 (Full frame) enjoy different sensor sizes.

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The ZS30 was introduced at a similar time to the RX1 so they are both of a similar age. The two cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS30 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the ZS30 matches up vs the RX1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS30 Gallery & Sony RX1 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS30 features outer measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs) and the Sony RX1 has measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") with a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS30 versus Sony RX1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are using at the time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the ZS30 vs the RX1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS30 and RX1 is 92 and 79 respectively.

Normally, it can be difficult to picture the contrast in sensor sizing purely by viewing technical specs. The visual below will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS30 and RX1.

As you have seen, each of the cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ZS30 having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Sony RX1 will render greater detail using its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics somewhat more aggressively.