Nikon AW130 vs Panasonic S3

Let's look much closer at the Nikon AW130 and Panasonic S3, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the AW130 (16MP) and the S3 (14MP) is very well matched and they use the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The AW130 was unveiled 4 years after the S3 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a thorough comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the AW130 scores versus the S3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix AW130 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon AW130 Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

If you are aiming to travel with your camera, you will need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Nikon AW130 has got outer dimensions of 110mm x 66mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.1") having a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs) and the Panasonic S3 has dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon AW130 and Panasonic S3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the AW130 vs the S3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the AW130 and S3 is 91 and 96 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to envision the difference between sensor dimensions just by checking specs. The picture underneath will help provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the AW130 and S3.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Nikon AW130 to resolve extra detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images far more aggressively. The fresher AW130 will have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.