Nikon S640 vs Panasonic ZS3

Lets look a bit more closely at the Nikon S640 and Panasonic ZS3, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the S640 (12MP) and the ZS3 (10MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras have the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S640 was launched 3 months later than the ZS3 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a full comparison, here is a simple view of how the S640 scores versus the ZS3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S640 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The complete galleries are available at Nikon S640 Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera, you should think about its weight and dimensions. The Nikon S640 offers outside measurements of 91mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.6" x 2.2" x 0.8") along with a weight of 130 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS3 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

See the Nikon S640 and Panasonic ZS3 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have chosen at the time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the S640 and the ZS3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S640 and ZS3 is 96 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to picture the difference between sensor sizing purely by looking at technical specs. The graphic underneath should give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the S640 and ZS3.

As you can tell, each of the cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different megapixels. You should count on the Nikon S640 to give extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures a good deal more aggressively.