Leica C vs Panasonic ZS3

Lets take a closer look at the Leica C versus Panasonic ZS3, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Leica and Panasonic. The image resolution of the C (12MP) and the ZS3 (10MP) is very similar but the C (1/1.7") and ZS3 (1/2.3") posses different sensor dimensions.

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The C was revealed 4 years after the ZS3 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the C grades against the ZS3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica C and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The full galleries are viewable at Leica C Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry around your camera, you're going to have to consider its weight and volume. The Leica C features outside measurements of 103mm x 63mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.5" x 1.1") along with a weight of 195 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS3 has sizing of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Compare the Leica C versus Panasonic ZS3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Here is a front view scale comparison of the C and the ZS3.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the C and ZS3 is 92 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it's tough to picture the difference between sensor sizes merely by reading specifications. The pic below should give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the C and ZS3.

To sum up, each of the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The C with its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Leica C will deliver more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The newer C should have an advantage in sensor technology.