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 Sony HX80 and Panasonic ZR3 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Sony HX80 has external dimensions of 102 x 58 x 36 mm (4.02 x 2.28 x 1.42″) and weighs 245 g (0.54 lb / 8.64 oz) (including batteries). Panasonic ZR3 has external dimensions of 98 x 55 x 26 mm (3.86 x 2.17 x 1.02″) and weighs 159 g (0.35 lb / 5.61 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Sony HX80 and the Panasonic ZR3. Panasonic ZR3 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 4mm narrower, 3mm shorter and 10mm thinner than Sony HX80.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Sony HX80 and Panasonic ZR3.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Sony HX80 and Panasonic ZR3.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic ZR3 is significantly lighter (86g ) than the Sony HX80 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80 nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 (Lumix DMC-ZX3) 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
LCD Screen Size and Features
Sony HX80's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Panasonic ZR3's 2.7 screen.
In addition to the size advantage, Sony HX80 LCD screen also has a
Tilting feature where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels. On the other hand, Panasonic ZR3 has a fixed type screen which provides less flexibility in shooting positions compared to HX80.