Canon SX260 HS vs Panasonic LX3

On this page, we are analyzing the Canon SX260 HS and Panasonic LX3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Canon and Panasonic. The resolution of the SX260 HS (12MP) and the LX3 (10MP) is fairly well matched but the SX260 HS (1/2.3") and LX3 (1/1.63") provide different sensor sizes.

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The SX260 HS was revealed 3 years later than the LX3 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a detailed comparison, here is a brief overview of how the SX260 HS grades versus the LX3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX260 HS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The full galleries are viewable at Canon SX260 HS Gallery and Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Canon SX260 HS has got physical dimensions of 106mm x 61mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 231 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LX3 has sizing of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SX260 HS and Panasonic LX3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the SX260 HS vs the LX3.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the SX260 HS and LX3 is 91 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reading through a spec sheet. The photograph underneath might give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SX260 HS and LX3.

Clearly, both of these cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SX260 HS with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field harder and the Canon SX260 HS will give you extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The more modern SX260 HS provides an edge when it comes to sensor tech.