Nikon S9700 vs Panasonic S3

Its time to look much closer at the Nikon S9700 vs Panasonic S3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Nikon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the S9700 (16MP) and the S3 (14MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras have the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The S9700 was introduced 3 years later than the S3 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a detailed comparison, here is a concise summary of how the S9700 grades vs the S3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix S9700 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon S9700 Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

In case you're intending to lug around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and volume. The Nikon S9700 has got exterior dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") with a weight of 232 grams (0.51 lbs) and the Panasonic S3 has sizing of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon S9700 vs Panasonic S3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the S9700 vs the S3.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the S9700 and S3 is 90 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to picture the gap between sensor measurements purely by checking specifications. The graphic below may offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the S9700 and S3.

To sum up, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Nikon S9700 to give extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop pictures more aggressively. The fresher S9700 provides an advantage in sensor tech.