Panasonic FH8 vs Panasonic ZR3

Here, we will be looking at the Panasonic FH8 and Panasonic ZR3, both Small Sensor Compact cameras and both of them are designed by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FH8 (16MP) and the ZR3 (14MP) is pretty close and both cameras posses the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FH8 was released 24 months later than the ZR3 which makes them a generation apart from each other. The two cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick overview of how the FH8 scores versus the ZR3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH8 Gallery and Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera often, you're going to have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH8 features external dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") with a weight of 123 grams (0.27 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZR3 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FH8 and Panasonic ZR3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the FH8 against the ZR3.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the FH8 and ZR3 is 96 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizing simply by researching specifications. The visual below will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FH8 and ZR3.

To sum up, the 2 cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different resolution. You should expect the Panasonic FH8 to result in more detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop shots way more aggressively. The fresher FH8 should have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.