Nikon S5100 vs Panasonic S3

On this page, we will be looking at the Nikon S5100 and Panasonic S3, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Nikon and Panasonic. The resolution of the S5100 (12MP) and the S3 (14MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras boast the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The S5100 was announced 4 months prior to the S3 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the S5100 matches up versus the S3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S5100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The whole galleries are available at Nikon S5100 Gallery & Panasonic S3 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera, you'll have to factor its weight and proportions. The Nikon S5100 has exterior dimensions of 97mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Panasonic S3 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Check the Nikon S5100 and Panasonic S3 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are using during that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the S5100 versus the S3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S5100 and S3 is 95 and 96 respectively.

Quite often, it can be difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reading through specifications. The visual below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the S5100 and S3.

To sum up, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You can count on the Panasonic S3 to resolve more detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop photographs a bit more aggressively.