Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Panasonic ZS3 and Sony HX1 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Panasonic ZS3 has external dimensions of 103 x 60 x 33 mm (4.06 x 2.36 x 1.3″) and weighs 229 g (0.50 lb / 8.08 oz) (including batteries). Sony HX1 has external dimensions of 115 x 83 x 92 mm (4.53 x 3.27 x 3.62″) and weighs 544 g (1.20 lb / 19.19 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS3 and the Sony HX1. Panasonic ZS3 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 12mm narrower, 23mm shorter and 59mm thinner than Sony HX1.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS3 and Sony HX1.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Panasonic ZS3 and Sony HX1.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic ZS3 is significantly lighter (315g ) than the Sony HX1 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 (Lumix DMC-TZ7) nor Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Bridge Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic ZS3 and Sony HX1's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
On the other hand, Sony HX1 features a
Tilting screen where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels whereas the Panasonic ZS3 has a fixed type screen which provides less flexibility in shooting positions compared to HX1.