Sony HX200V vs Zeiss ZX1

Following is a in-depth assessment of the Sony HX200V and Zeiss ZX1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Sony and Zeiss. There exists a noticeable gap between the resolutions of the HX200V (18MP) and ZX1 (37MP) and the HX200V (1/2.3") and ZX1 (Full frame) offer totally different sensor measurements.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The HX200V was released 7 years before the ZX1 which is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Sony HX200V being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Zeiss ZX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go into a in depth comparison, here is a short summary of how the HX200V grades against the ZX1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V & Zeiss ZX1. The complete galleries are provided at Sony HX200V Gallery & Zeiss ZX1 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry around your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Sony HX200V has external measurements of 122mm x 87mm x 93mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 3.7") with a weight of 583 grams (1.29 lbs) whilst 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).

See the Sony HX200V and Zeiss ZX1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose during that time. Here is a front view scale comparison of the HX200V versus the ZX1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the HX200V and ZX1 is 66 and 67 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to see the gap between sensor sizes merely by reading technical specs. The image underneath might provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the HX200V and ZX1.

As you have seen, both of the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The HX200V because of its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Zeiss ZX1 will deliver more detail as a result of its extra 19MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots more aggressively. The more aged HX200V is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.