Canon S100 vs Panasonic 3D1

Following is a in depth assessment of the Canon S100 and Panasonic 3D1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by brands Canon and Panasonic. The resolution of the S100 (12MP) and the 3D1 (12MP) is relatively close but the S100 (1/1.7") and 3D1 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The S100 was unveiled 2 months after the 3D1 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going straight to a thorough comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the S100 scores versus the 3D1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot S100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1. The full galleries are viewable at Canon S100 Gallery and Panasonic 3D1 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera frequently, you will have to factor in its weight and volume. The Canon S100 provides external measurements of 99mm x 60mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs) whilst the Panasonic 3D1 has sizing of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs).

Contrast the Canon S100 and Panasonic 3D1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have at the time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the S100 versus the 3D1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the S100 and 3D1 is 93 and 93 respectively.

Usually, its tough to see the difference in sensor sizes just by viewing technical specs. The image here may give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the S100 and 3D1.

As you can tell, both of these cameras come with the identical MP albeit not the same sensor sizes. The S100 has the bigger sensor which will make getting shallow DOF less difficult.