Panasonic FH3 vs Panasonic ZS8

Its time to look a little more in depth at the Panasonic FH3 versus Panasonic ZS8, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are designed by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FH3 (14MP) and the ZS8 (14MP) is very close and both cameras posses the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FH3 was introduced 18 months earlier than the ZS8 making them a generation apart from one another. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a in depth comparison, here is a short view of how the FH3 matches up against the ZS8 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH3 Gallery and Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera often, you have to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic FH3 features exterior measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS8 has sizing of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH3 versus Panasonic ZS8 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have at that time. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the FH3 against the ZS8.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FH3 and ZS8 is 94 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, it's hard to envision the gap in sensor measurements just by viewing specifications. The visual underneath may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the FH3 and ZS8.

Plainly, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the identical resolution and you should expect comparable quality of images but you have to consider the production date of the cameras into account. The older FH3 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.