Canon SD4000 IS vs Panasonic SZ3

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Canon SD4000 IS and Panasonic SZ3, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Canon and Panasonic. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the SD4000 IS (10MP) and SZ3 (16MP) but they feature the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SD4000 IS was brought out 3 years earlier than the SZ3 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a in depth comparison, below is a brief summation of how the SD4000 IS scores against the SZ3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SD4000 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The entire galleries are provided at Canon SD4000 IS Gallery and Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera frequently, you need to factor its weight and measurements. The Canon SD4000 IS features outside 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 SZ3 has proportions of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SD4000 IS and Panasonic SZ3 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have attached at that time. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the SD4000 IS versus the SZ3.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the SD4000 IS and SZ3 is 94 and 96 respectively.

Generally, its tough to picture the gap between sensor measurements only by reading a spec sheet. The photograph underneath should give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SD4000 IS and SZ3.

Clearly, both of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should expect the Panasonic SZ3 to offer extra detail having its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The older SD4000 IS is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.