Nikon S30 vs Panasonic FH3

On this page, we are reviewing the Nikon S30 vs Panasonic FH3, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by companies Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the S30 (10MP) and FH3 (14MP) and the S30 (1/3") and FH3 (1/2.3") boast different sensor sizes.

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The S30 was revealed 2 years later than the FH3 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a detailed comparison, here is a quick view of how the S30 grades vs the FH3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix S30 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3. The full galleries are available at Nikon S30 Gallery & Panasonic FH3 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and size. The Nikon S30 provides outer measurements of 102mm x 65mm x 40mm (4.0" x 2.6" x 1.6") with a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Panasonic FH3 has specifications of 98mm x 55mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs).

Check out the Nikon S30 vs Panasonic FH3 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you use at that time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the S30 and the FH3.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S30 and FH3 is 90 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing only by going through a spec sheet. The photograph below will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the S30 and FH3.

As you can see, both cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The S30 using its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field tougher and the Panasonic FH3 will provide more detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos more aggressively. The younger S30 should have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.