Canon A1100 IS vs Panasonic S3

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Canon A1100 IS and Panasonic S3, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Canon and Panasonic. The resolution of the A1100 IS (12MP) and the S3 (14MP) is relatively well matched and they feature the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The A1100 IS was unveiled 22 months prior to the S3 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief summary of how the A1100 IS matches up versus the S3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot A1100 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The full galleries are provided at Canon A1100 IS Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

For those who are looking to travel with your camera regularly, you will need to consider its weight and size. The Canon A1100 IS provides physical dimensions of 95mm x 62mm x 31mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 1.2") having a weight of 150 grams (0.33 lbs) and the Panasonic S3 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

See the Canon A1100 IS and Panasonic S3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the A1100 IS vs the S3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the A1100 IS and S3 is 93 and 96 respectively.

Often, it is tough to imagine the gap between sensor dimensions simply by reading through a spec sheet. The pic here should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the A1100 IS and S3.

Clearly, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should count on the Panasonic S3 to give greater detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots far more aggressively. The more aged A1100 IS is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.