Nikon S31 vs Panasonic ZS3

Here is a extended comparison of the Nikon S31 versus Panasonic ZS3, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the S31 (10MP) and the ZS3 (10MP) is fairly comparable but the S31 (1/2.9") and ZS3 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor size.

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The S31 was announced 4 years later than the ZS3 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a short overview of how the S31 matches up against the ZS3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix S31 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon S31 Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and proportions. The Nikon S31 has outside measurements 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 ZS3 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

See the Nikon S31 versus Panasonic ZS3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilising at the time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the S31 versus the ZS3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the S31 and ZS3 is 90 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to envision the difference in sensor sizing merely by checking out technical specs. The graphic here should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the S31 and ZS3.

As you can tell, both the cameras enjoy the same exact resolution but not the same sensor sizing. The S31 comes with the smaller sensor which will make getting shallow depth of field harder. The more modern S31 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.