Sony NEX-C3 vs Zeiss ZX1

On this page, we will be analyzing the Sony NEX-C3 and Zeiss ZX1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Sony and Zeiss. There exists a big gap among the sensor resolutions of the NEX-C3 (16MP) and ZX1 (37MP) and the NEX-C3 (APS-C) and ZX1 (Full frame) offer totally different sensor size.

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The NEX-C3 was announced 8 years earlier than the ZX1 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Sony NEX-C3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Zeiss ZX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go right into a detailed comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the NEX-C3 grades versus the ZX1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha NEX-C3 and Zeiss ZX1. The whole galleries are available at Sony NEX-C3 Gallery and Zeiss ZX1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to lug around your camera regularly, you should factor its weight and dimensions. The Sony NEX-C3 has outside measurements of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Zeiss ZX1 has dimensions of 142mm x 93mm x 46mm (5.6" x 3.7" x 1.8") with a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Check out the Sony NEX-C3 and Zeiss ZX1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is a front view size comparison of the NEX-C3 versus the ZX1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the NEX-C3 and ZX1 is 91 and 67 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to envision the gap in sensor measurements simply by seeing specifications. The graphic below may give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the NEX-C3 and ZX1.

Plainly, the two cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The NEX-C3 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Zeiss ZX1 will show extra detail with its extra 21 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures more aggressively. The older NEX-C3 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.