Panasonic ZS8 vs Sony NEX-3N

In this article, we will be comparing the Panasonic ZS8 versus Sony NEX-3N, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS8 (14MP) and the NEX-3N (16MP) is relatively comparable but the ZS8 (1/2.3") and NEX-3N (APS-C) feature different sensor measurements.

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The ZS8 was unveiled 19 months earlier than the NEX-3N which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the ZS8 grades vs the NEX-3N when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 & Sony Alpha NEX-3N. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS8 Gallery & Sony NEX-3N Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS8 comes with exterior measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs) and the Sony NEX-3N has dimensions of 110mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS8 versus Sony NEX-3N in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the ZS8 compared to the NEX-3N.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS8 and NEX-3N is 92 and 89 respectively.

Typically, it's tough to picture the gap in sensor measurements simply by seeing technical specs. The photograph underneath might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS8 and NEX-3N.

As you have seen, each of these cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The ZS8 having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF harder and the Sony NEX-3N will show greater detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The older ZS8 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.