Canon SX230 HS vs Panasonic ZR3

On this page, we are comparing the Canon SX230 HS and Panasonic ZR3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Canon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SX230 HS (12MP) and the ZR3 (14MP) is very similar and both cameras boast the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SX230 HS was introduced 18 months later than the ZR3 making them a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a concise summation of how the SX230 HS matches up vs the ZR3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX230 HS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The whole galleries are available at Canon SX230 HS Gallery and Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you will need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX230 HS provides outer dimensions of 106mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 223 grams (0.49 lbs) while the Panasonic ZR3 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SX230 HS and Panasonic ZR3 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 have at the time. The following is a front view scale comparison of the SX230 HS versus the ZR3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SX230 HS and ZR3 is 91 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to envision the gap between sensor sizing simply by reviewing technical specs. The graphic below should give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX230 HS and ZR3.

As you have seen, both the cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZR3 to offer greater detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The younger SX230 HS is going to have an edge in sensor technology.