Panasonic 3D1 vs Panasonic ZS3

Its time to look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic 3D1 versus Panasonic ZS3, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both produced by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the 3D1 (12MP) and the ZS3 (10MP) is relatively close and both cameras offer the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The 3D1 was revealed 2 years after the ZS3 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a comprehensive comparison, here is a short highlight of how the 3D1 scores versus the ZS3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

For those who are planning to travel with your camera often, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic 3D1 provides external measurements of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS3 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic 3D1 versus Panasonic ZS3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at the time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the 3D1 versus the ZS3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 3D1 and ZS3 is 93 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to envision the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by viewing specs. The picture here will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the 3D1 and ZS3.

All in all, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Panasonic 3D1 to render greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more modern 3D1 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.