Nikon S31 vs Panasonic ZR3

Here is a comprehensive assessment of the Nikon S31 and Panasonic ZR3, former being a Waterproof while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. There is a substantial difference between the image resolutions of the S31 (10MP) and ZR3 (14MP) and the S31 (1/2.9") and ZR3 (1/2.3") provide different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The S31 was unveiled 3 years later than the ZR3 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the S31 matches up against the ZR3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix S31 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon S31 Gallery & Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and proportions. The Nikon S31 provides physical dimensions of 105mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.1" x 2.6" x 1.7") with a weight of 185 grams (0.41 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZR3 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon S31 and Panasonic ZR3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the S31 vs the ZR3.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the S31 and ZR3 is 90 and 94 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to picture the gap between sensor sizing purely by reviewing specifications. The graphic below will give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S31 and ZR3.

To sum up, both of these cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The S31 using its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF tougher and the Panasonic ZR3 will offer you extra detail having an extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos way more aggressively. The fresher S31 provides an advantage in sensor tech.