Nikon S31 vs Panasonic FH3

Let's take a deeper look at the Nikon S31 and Panasonic FH3, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference among the image resolutions of the S31 (10MP) and FH3 (14MP) and the S31 (1/2.9") and FH3 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor sizes.

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The S31 was brought out 3 years later than the FH3 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick summation of how the S31 grades versus the FH3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S31 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3. The entire galleries are available at Nikon S31 Gallery and Panasonic FH3 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera, you will need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Nikon S31 comes with outside measurements of 105mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.1" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 185 grams (0.41 lbs) while the Panasonic FH3 has proportions of 98mm x 55mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon S31 and Panasonic FH3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using at that moment. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the S31 vs the FH3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the S31 and FH3 is 90 and 94 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to see the contrast in sensor sizing simply by checking out technical specs. The graphic below will help offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the S31 and FH3.

As you have seen, each of these cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The S31 featuring a smaller sensor will make getting shallow DOF tougher and the Panasonic FH3 will show more detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The newer S31 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.