Canon SX40 HS vs Panasonic ZS3

In this article, we are looking at the Canon SX40 HS and Panasonic ZS3, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Canon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SX40 HS (12MP) and the ZS3 (10MP) is very close and they come with the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SX40 HS was introduced 2 years later than the ZS3 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX40 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a full comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the SX40 HS scores versus the ZS3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX40 HS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The whole galleries are available at Canon SX40 HS Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera often, you will need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX40 HS features external measurements of 123mm x 92mm x 108mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 4.3") and a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS3 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check the Canon SX40 HS and Panasonic ZS3 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have at the time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the SX40 HS vs the ZS3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SX40 HS and ZS3 is 64 and 91 respectively.

Normally, its difficult to picture the gap in sensor measurements simply by viewing specs. The visual here should provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SX40 HS and ZS3.

All in all, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You should expect to see the Canon SX40 HS to provide you with greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop pics far more aggressively. The more modern SX40 HS provides an edge in sensor innovation.