Panasonic S1 vs Panasonic ZR3

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic S1 vs Panasonic ZR3, former is a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both manufactured by Panasonic. There is a considerable difference between the sensor resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and ZR3 (14MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and ZR3 (1/2.3") have different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The S1 was released 9 years after the ZR3 which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZR3 being a Compact camera.

Before getting right into a full comparison, here is a short summation of how the S1 grades versus the ZR3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic S1 Gallery & Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera often, you will want to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S1 features external measurements of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") with a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs) while the Panasonic ZR3 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S1 vs Panasonic ZR3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the S1 compared to the ZR3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and ZR3 is 54 and 94 respectively.

Often, it's hard to picture the difference between sensor dimensions merely by looking at technical specs. The picture underneath may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the S1 and ZR3.

As you have seen, both of the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The S1 featuring a larger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic S1 will give you greater detail as a result of its extra 10MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The younger S1 should have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.