Kodak Z980 vs Panasonic SZ3

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Kodak Z980 vs Panasonic SZ3, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Kodak and Panasonic. There exists a considerable gap between the resolutions of the Z980 (12MP) and SZ3 (16MP) but they possess the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The Z980 was manufactured 5 years prior to the SZ3 which is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a more detailed comparison, below is a simple summation of how the Z980 matches up versus the SZ3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Kodak EasyShare Z980 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The entire galleries are provided at Kodak Z980 Gallery & Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera often, you have to think about its weight and size. The Kodak Z980 offers physical dimensions of 124mm x 91mm x 105mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 4.1") accompanied by a weight of 445 grams (0.98 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ3 has specifications of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check the Kodak Z980 vs Panasonic SZ3 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are working with at that moment. Here is the front view dimensions comparison of the Z980 versus the SZ3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the Z980 and SZ3 is 68 and 96 respectively.

Sometimes, its hard to see the contrast between sensor sizes only by reading through technical specs. The picture here may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the Z980 and SZ3.

As you can tell, both the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You can expect the Panasonic SZ3 to resolve greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The more aged Z980 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.