Panasonic ZS80 vs Panasonic SZ3

Here is a complete assessment of the Panasonic ZS80 and Panasonic SZ3, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both built by Panasonic. There exists a noticeable gap between the image resolutions of the ZS80 (20MP) and SZ3 (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The ZS80 was unveiled 5 years later than the SZ3 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a full comparison, here is a brief summation of how the ZS80 scores against the SZ3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS80 Gallery & Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera often, you will want to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS80 has external measurements of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") and a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ3 has specifications of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS80 and Panasonic SZ3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilising during that time. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the ZS80 vs the SZ3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS80 and SZ3 is 86 and 96 respectively.

Normally, its hard to picture the gap between sensor sizing purely by checking a spec sheet. The graphic below will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS80 and SZ3.

As you can see, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You can expect the Panasonic ZS80 to resolve more detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The fresher ZS80 should have an advantage in sensor tech.