Canon SD980 IS vs Panasonic LX3

Here is a thorough comparison of the Canon SD980 IS vs Panasonic LX3, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by manufacturers Canon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SD980 IS (12MP) and the LX3 (10MP) is fairly close but the SD980 IS (1/2.3") and LX3 (1/1.63") feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The SD980 IS was manufactured 10 months later than the LX3 and they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a in depth comparison, below is a simple view of how the SD980 IS matches up vs the LX3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SD980 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The entire galleries are available at Canon SD980 IS Gallery and Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you have to factor in its weight and volume. The Canon SD980 IS has got outside measurements of 100mm x 53mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.1" x 0.9") along with a weight of 150 grams (0.33 lbs) while the Panasonic LX3 has sizing of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Examine the Canon SD980 IS vs Panasonic LX3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are employing during that time. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the SD980 IS compared to the LX3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the SD980 IS and LX3 is 95 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizing simply by researching a spec sheet. The photograph below will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the SD980 IS and LX3.

Clearly, both of these cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SD980 IS due to its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh harder and the Canon SD980 IS will provide you with greater detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The more modern SD980 IS is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.