Pentax RZ18 vs Sony NEX-3

Here is a complete overview of the Pentax RZ18 vs Sony NEX-3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the RZ18 (16MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is pretty similar but the RZ18 (1/2.3") and NEX-3 (APS-C) posses different sensor measurements.

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The RZ18 was introduced 16 months later than the NEX-3 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the RZ18 matches up against the NEX-3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax Optio RZ18 and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax RZ18 Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera often, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Pentax RZ18 enjoys exterior measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) and the Sony NEX-3 has specifications of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

See the Pentax RZ18 vs Sony NEX-3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the RZ18 and the NEX-3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the RZ18 and NEX-3 is 92 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be hard to imagine the gap between sensor sizing purely by reading technical specs. The graphic underneath may offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the RZ18 and NEX-3.

As you can tell, both of those cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The RZ18 having a tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field tougher and the Pentax RZ18 will deliver extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures more aggressively. The newer RZ18 should have an advantage in sensor tech.