Leica V-Lux 3 vs Panasonic FZ70

Lets take a closer look at the Leica V-Lux 3 and Panasonic FZ70, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Leica and Panasonic. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the V-Lux 3 (12MP) and FZ70 (16MP) but they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The V-Lux 3 was released 19 months prior to the FZ70 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the V-Lux 3 matches up versus the FZ70 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Leica V-Lux 3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ70. The complete galleries are available at Leica V-Lux 3 Gallery and Panasonic FZ70 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and proportions. The Leica V-Lux 3 has exterior measurements of 124mm x 81mm x 95mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.7") with a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ70 has measurements of 130mm x 97mm x 118mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 4.6") along with a weight of 606 grams (1.34 lbs).

Contrast the Leica V-Lux 3 and Panasonic FZ70 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you use at that time. Here is the front view scale comparison of the V-Lux 3 against the FZ70.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the V-Lux 3 and FZ70 is 67 and 63 respectively.

Normally, its tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizing only by looking at specs. The graphic here may offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the V-Lux 3 and FZ70.

All in all, each of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Panasonic FZ70 to resolve extra detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The older V-Lux 3 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.