Canon SD4000 IS vs Panasonic S3

Let's take a deeper look at the Canon SD4000 IS versus Panasonic S3, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Canon and Panasonic. There exists a big gap between the image resolutions of the SD4000 IS (10MP) and S3 (14MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SD4000 IS was introduced 5 months prior to the S3 and they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the SD4000 IS grades vs the S3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SD4000 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon SD4000 IS Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera frequently, you will need to think about its weight and volume. The Canon SD4000 IS comes with exterior dimensions of 100mm x 54mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.1" x 0.9") along with a weight of 175 grams (0.39 lbs) and the Panasonic S3 has sizing of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SD4000 IS versus Panasonic S3 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with at the time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the SD4000 IS and the S3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SD4000 IS and S3 is 94 and 96 respectively.

Typically, it's tough to picture the contrast between sensor measurements just by reading specs. The graphic below might provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the SD4000 IS and S3.

All in all, both cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You should count on the Panasonic S3 to offer you extra detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop photographs a bit more aggressively.