Canon SX530 HS vs Panasonic ZS3

In this article, we are evaluating the Canon SX530 HS vs Panasonic ZS3, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Canon and Panasonic. There exists a considerable gap among the resolutions of the SX530 HS (16MP) and ZS3 (10MP) but they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The SX530 HS was released 5 years later than the ZS3 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX530 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a more detailed comparison, below is a simple summary of how the SX530 HS matches up versus the ZS3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX530 HS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The complete galleries are viewable at Canon SX530 HS Gallery & Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera, you're going to have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Canon SX530 HS comes with external measurements of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") with a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS3 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Analyze the Canon SX530 HS vs Panasonic ZS3 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the SX530 HS and the ZS3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SX530 HS and ZS3 is 69 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it can be difficult to see the contrast in sensor measurements purely by researching a spec sheet. The visual here may provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SX530 HS and ZS3.

As you can see, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You can expect to see the Canon SX530 HS to render more detail as a result of its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images far more aggressively. The newer SX530 HS will have a benefit in sensor tech.