Panasonic ZS5 vs Sony NEX-3

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic ZS5 versus Sony NEX-3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the ZS5 (12MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is very similar but the ZS5 (1/2.3") and NEX-3 (APS-C) have totally different sensor size.

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The ZS5 was brought out within a month of the NEX-3 and they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS5 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the ZS5 grades versus the NEX-3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS5 Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera often, you should consider its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS5 comes with outside dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) and the Sony NEX-3 has specifications of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZS5 versus Sony NEX-3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the ZS5 against the NEX-3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS5 and NEX-3 is 92 and 89 respectively.

Normally, its tough to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements merely by reviewing specifications. The photograph below should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS5 and NEX-3.

Plainly, both cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The ZS5 because of its tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Sony NEX-3 will offer you extra detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos more aggressively.