Panasonic S1 vs Panasonic SZ3

Let's look a little more closely at the Panasonic S1 versus Panasonic SZ3, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are sold by Panasonic. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and SZ3 (16MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and SZ3 (1/2.3") provide different sensor dimensions.

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The S1 was brought out 6 years later than the SZ3 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the S1 scores vs the SZ3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic S1 Gallery and Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S1 has got outside dimensions of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") accompanied by a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ3 has measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic S1 versus Panasonic SZ3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the S1 against the SZ3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the S1 and SZ3 is 54 and 96 respectively.

Often, it's hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing simply by reading technical specs. The visual below will give you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the S1 and SZ3.

As you can tell, both cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The S1 due to its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic S1 will deliver extra detail having its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop pics more aggressively. The more modern S1 provides an edge with regard to sensor innovation.