Panasonic FP1 vs Panasonic ZS3

Its time to take a more detailed look at the Panasonic FP1 and Panasonic ZS3, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are offered by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FP1 (12MP) and the ZS3 (10MP) is relatively close and they use the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FP1 was revealed 8 months later than the ZS3 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FP1 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a more detailed comparison, below is a concise view of how the FP1 scores versus the ZS3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic FP1 enjoys outer dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS3 has specifications of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FP1 and Panasonic ZS3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is the front view size comparison of the FP1 versus the ZS3.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the FP1 and ZS3 is 95 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizing purely by researching technical specs. The photograph here should give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FP1 and ZS3.

As you can tell, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You should count on the Panasonic FP1 to provide you with extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more modern FP1 provides a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.