Nikon S3600 vs Panasonic ZS20

Here is a detailed analysis of the Nikon S3600 versus Panasonic ZS20, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Nikon and Panasonic. There is a significant difference among the resolutions of the S3600 (20MP) and ZS20 (14MP) but both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The S3600 was launched 21 months later than the ZS20 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief view of how the S3600 grades against the ZS20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix S3600 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The complete galleries are available at Nikon S3600 Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Nikon S3600 enjoys physical measurements of 97mm x 58mm x 20mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS20 has proportions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check the Nikon S3600 versus Panasonic ZS20 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at that time. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the S3600 compared to the ZS20.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the S3600 and ZS20 is 96 and 92 respectively.

Generally, its hard to picture the difference in sensor sizing only by researching a spec sheet. The photograph here should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the S3600 and ZS20.

Clearly, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You should expect the Nikon S3600 to render more detail utilizing its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The more recent S3600 provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.