Kodak Z981 vs Panasonic ZS3

Here, we are evaluating the Kodak Z981 versus Panasonic ZS3, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Kodak and Panasonic. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the Z981 (14MP) and ZS3 (10MP) but both cameras posses the identical sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The Z981 was revealed 14 months later than the ZS3 making them a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Kodak Z981 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera.

Before getting into a in depth comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the Z981 scores against the ZS3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Kodak EasyShare Z981 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The full galleries are available at Kodak Z981 Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

For those who are going to lug around your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor its weight and proportions. The Kodak Z981 has exterior dimensions of 124mm x 85mm x 105mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.1") with a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) and 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).

Check the Kodak Z981 versus Panasonic ZS3 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the Z981 versus the ZS3.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the Z981 and ZS3 is 66 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to envision the difference in sensor measurements merely by seeing specs. The graphic underneath should give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the Z981 and ZS3.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras come with the identical sensor size but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Kodak Z981 to provide greater detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The younger Z981 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.