Nikon AW120 vs Panasonic TS3

Here, we will be matching up the Nikon AW120 and Panasonic TS3, both Waterproof cameras by companies Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the AW120 (16MP) and TS3 (12MP) but both cameras posses the identical sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The AW120 was revealed 2 years later than the TS3 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick summation of how the AW120 scores versus the TS3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix AW120 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon AW120 Gallery & Panasonic TS3 Gallery.

When you are looking to lug around your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Nikon AW120 features physical measurements of 110mm x 66mm x 26mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.0") having a weight of 213 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Panasonic TS3 has measurements of 103mm x 64mm x 27mm (4.1" x 2.5" x 1.1") with a weight of 197 grams (0.43 lbs).

Look at the Nikon AW120 and Panasonic TS3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are using during that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the AW120 compared to the TS3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the AW120 and TS3 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to see the difference in sensor measurements purely by going through technical specs. The photograph below will offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the AW120 and TS3.

As you have seen, both cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same megapixels. You can expect the Nikon AW120 to show more detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs way more aggressively. The newer AW120 will have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.