Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 vs DMC-ZS40: A Deep Dive into Two Compact Cameras

Choosing the right compact camera can be a challenge with so many models available. Today, we explore two Panasonic Lumix models - the DMC-FP3, an ultracompact from 2010, and the DMC-ZS40 (also known as DMC-TZ60 outside the US), a small-sensor superzoom from 2014. Both serve the portability and versatility niche, but they cater to different user needs and photographic ambitions.

Having tested thousands of cameras over a 15+ year career, I’ll guide you through their key specs, hands-on performance, and real-world usability - covering everything from portraiture to travel. Let’s unpack the essentials so you can make an informed choice tailored to your style.

Getting to Know the Cameras: Size, Build & Controls

First impressions matter. How the camera feels in your hands, its physical footprint, and control layout all influence shoot confidence and comfort over time.

Feature	Panasonic FP3	Panasonic ZS40
Dimensions (mm)	99 x 59 x 19	111 x 64 x 34
Weight	155 g (lightweight ultracompact)	240 g (still compact but heavier)
Body Type	Ultracompact	Compact superzoom
Build Quality	Basic plastic, minimal weather sealing	Solid plastic, no weather sealing
Viewfinder	None	Electronic viewfinder (200k pixels)
Screen	3.0" fixed touchscreen, 230K dots	3.0" fixed non-touch TFT LCD, 920K dots
Controls	Minimal buttons, no manual dials	More buttons, manual control options
Image Stabilization	Optical IS	Optical IS

Hands-on Insights:

The FP3 is truly pocketable, with a sleek and slim silhouette you’ll love for casual strolls and spontaneous shots. It weighs next to nothing but sacrifices physical controls and durability. Its 3:2 touchscreen is sparse in resolution, making image review and menu navigation basic.

The ZS40 is chunkier and closer to a small bridge camera. It offers a solid grip, more tactile buttons, and manual control dials - excellent if you want faster access to settings. The inclusion of an electronic viewfinder (EVF) greatly aids in bright outdoor shooting and framing precision. The higher-res LCD is a welcome boost for reviewing photos on the fly.

If you prioritize ultraportability and simplicity, the FP3’s slim form is ideal. For control flexibility and a better viewfinder experience, the ZS40 shines.

Sensor Technology & Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

The sensor dictates the image quality foundation, low-light performance, and resolution details.

Feature	Panasonic FP3	Panasonic ZS40
Sensor Type	CCD	CMOS
Sensor Size	1/2.3” (6.08 x 4.56 mm)	1/2.3” (6.17 x 4.55 mm)
Sensor Area	27.72 mm²	28.07 mm²
Resolution	14 MP	18 MP
Max ISO Native	6400	3200
Max Boost ISO	None	6400
Anti-alias Filter	Yes	Yes
RAW Support	No	Yes
Maximum Image Size	4320 x 3240	4896 x 3672

What This Means in Practice

The FP3 uses an older CCD sensor optimized for general daylight shooting but tends to generate more noise in dim conditions. It caps at ISO 6400 but noise degrades image quality quickly beyond ISO 400 or 800 in real tests.

The ZS40 features a newer CMOS sensor with an 18 MP resolution bump and native RAW file capture. This gives you significantly more flexibility in post-processing, especially important if you shoot portraits and landscapes where color fidelity and dynamic range matter.

Even though both share a 1/2.3” sensor size, the ZS40’s newer technology yields better high ISO performance and cleaner images at ISO 800-1600. It can handle indoor and low-light conditions with greater confidence. The option to shoot in RAW means better highlight recovery and advanced editing possibilities.

For photographers focused on image quality and editing versatility, the ZS40’s sensor-and-processor combo wins. The FP3, while decent for snapshot quality, won’t satisfy enthusiasts wanting crisp, detailed files.

Optics & Zoom Capability: Versatility in Framing

Zoom range and lens speed impact creative framing and low-light ability. Here we see a contrast in philosophy:

Feature	Panasonic FP3	Panasonic ZS40
Lens Focal Range	35-140 mm (4x optical zoom)	24-720 mm (30x optical zoom)
Maximum Aperture	F3.5 – 5.9	F3.3 – 6.4
Macro Focus Range	10 cm	3 cm
Optical Image Stabilization	Yes	Yes

Practical Lens Usability

The FP3’s lens provides a modest 4x zoom range, roughly equivalent to 35-140 mm in full frame terms due to a 5.9x crop factor. The aperture range is a bit slow, making it challenging to shoot in lower light or create strong background blur (bokeh).

In contrast, the ZS40 offers a massive 30x zoom reaching super-telephoto focal lengths (24-720 mm equivalent). This versatility opens many doors:

• Ultra-wide 24 mm for landscapes, architecture, and tight interiors
• Telephoto 720 mm superzoom for wildlife, sports, or distant subjects

The maximum aperture is slightly slower at telephoto end (F6.4), but optical image stabilization helps compensate for camera shake.

Also notably, ZS40’s macro focusing down to 3 cm is much closer than FP3’s 10 cm, allowing you to capture finely detailed close-ups with ease.

If zoom flexibility is paramount - for travel, wildlife, and sports - the ZS40 is the superior choice. For casual snapshots with simple framing, the FP3 suffices but won’t inspire creative lens use.

Autofocus, Shooting Speed & Responsiveness

Speed and accuracy of autofocus (AF) systems shape your ability to capture decisive moments, especially in dynamic scenarios like sports or street photography.

Feature	Panasonic FP3	Panasonic ZS40
AF System Type	Contrast detection, 9 points	Contrast detection, 23 points with face detection
AF Modes	Single AF only	Single, Continuous, Tracking AF
Face Detection	No	Yes
AF Touch Screen	Yes	No
Continuous Shooting	5 fps	10 fps
Shutter Speed Range	1/60 to 1/1600 s	1/4 to 1/2000 s

How They Perform in the Field

The FP3’s contrast-detection AF with only 9 focus points and no continuous or face-tracking modes means slower and less reliable focus, especially for moving subjects. The shooting speed of 5 fps is decent for casual use but limited for action.

Conversely, the ZS40 boasts a more advanced AF system with 23 points, face detection, and continuous AF tracking - a real benefit when capturing kids, pets, sports, or street scenes. Twice the continuous shooting fps at 10 provides extra flexibility to catch fleeting moments.

The ZS40’s shutter speed range starting from a slower 1/4s minimum still works for intentional long exposures, while the faster max shutter speed aids in freezing motion.

If your photography includes wildlife, sports, or fast street scenes, the ZS40 will offer much better autofocus reliability and burst shooting. The FP3 is better suited as a casual everyday camera or for posed portraits.

Image Stabilization, Flash & Exposure Controls

Both cameras offer optical image stabilization - a vital feature in compact cameras to reduce blur from hand shake.

• The FP3’s IS is basic but necessary for its zoom range and slower apertures
• The ZS40 also includes optical IS with improved flash range (6.4m vs. 4.9m) and various flash modes such as slow sync, red-eye reduction

Regarding exposure control, the FP3 offers no manual exposure modes or shutter/aperture priority - limiting control mostly to automatic shooting with exposure compensation unavailable.

The ZS40 offers:

• Manual exposure (shutter & aperture priority, full manual)
• Exposure compensation and bracketing (AE and WB bracketing)

For advanced creators who want to refine exposure creatively, the ZS40’s manual controls empower experimentation and precision.

Screens, Viewfinders & User Interface

Feature	Panasonic FP3	Panasonic ZS40
Rear Screen	3" touchscreen, 230k dots	3" TFT LCD, 920k dots (non-touch)
Viewfinder	None	Electronic, 200k pixels
Menu System	Basic Panasonic interface	Refined with more custom options
Input Method	Touch and buttons	Buttons and dials

What We Found

The FP3’s touchscreen is handy for beginners and light shooting but suffers from low resolution, limiting detailed reviews or on-screen sharpness checking. Without a viewfinder, composing in bright sunlight is tricky.

The ZS40’s higher-res LCD and electronic viewfinder together allow flexible composition in various lighting conditions. While the LCD is not touch-based, the more traditional button/dial control scheme offers faster manual setting changes and feels more professional.

For portability-focused users, the FP3’s touchscreen is accessible. For those who want to shoot in all conditions with confidence, the ZS40’s EVF is a significant advantage.

Video Capabilities

Feature	Panasonic FP3	Panasonic ZS40
Max Video Resolution	1280 x 720p (30 fps)	1920 x 1080p (60p/60i/30p)
Video Formats	Motion JPEG	MPEG-4, AVCHD
Mic Input	No	No
Headphone Jack	No	No
Stabilization	Optical IS	Optical IS

For casual video enthusiasts, the FP3 offers basic HD video at 720p only, which feels dated today, with limited control options.

The ZS40 supports full HD (1080p) at up to 60 frames per second, delivering smooth, high-quality footage. Though lacking external microphone and headphone jacks reduces professional audio control, the internal mic is adequate for casual use. Optical stabilization helps greatly in handheld shooting.

If video plays a major role in your creative pursuits, the ZS40 presents a far more capable imaging tool.

Connectivity, Storage & Battery Life

Feature	Panasonic FP3	Panasonic ZS40
Wireless Connectivity	None	Built-In WiFi, NFC
GPS	None	Built-In GPS for geotagging
Storage Slots	1 x SD/SDHC/SDXC	1 x SD/SDHC/SDXC
Battery Type	Unknown proprietary	Battery Pack
Battery Life (CIPA)	Unknown	~300 shots
USB	USB 2.0	USB 2.0
HDMI	No	Yes

Wireless connectivity and built-in GPS in the ZS40 add smart convenience for travelers who want instant photo sharing and geo-location metadata packed with images. The inclusion of HDMI output supports easy playback on TVs.

The FP3’s lack of wireless or GPS features limits its modern usage scenarios.

Battery life on the ZS40 is quite respectable for a compact zoom camera at about 300 shots per charge, meaning you won’t be swapping batteries frequently on a day trip.

Real-World Use Cases by Photography Genre

Let’s examine suitability across typical photography disciplines. This highlights how each camera’s strengths map to user needs.

Photography Area	Panasonic FP3 Strengths	Panasonic ZS40 Strengths
Portraits	Decent skin tones, simple use	Better resolution, face detection for reliable focus; RAW support for editing colors
Landscapes	Lightweight, easy framing	Higher resolution, wider zoom, manual exposure control, EVF aids precise composition
Wildlife	Limited zoom, slow AF	30x zoom, continuous AF, faster burst rate, stabilization suited for distant animals
Sports	Slow burst & AF limits capture	10 fps burst, continuous AF, faster shutter speeds help freeze action
Street	Very compact and light for discreet shooting	Still portable with EVF and superior AF for candid moments
Macro	10 cm macro focus, limited detail	Closer 3 cm macro with better focusing precision and image quality
Night / Astro	Max ISO 6400 but noisy sensor	Cleaner high ISO images, manual exposure control, longer shutter speeds available
Video	Basic 720p	Full HD 1080p 60fps + optical IS
Travel	Ultra-light, pocket-sized	Versatile zoom, GPS, WiFi, EVF, better battery, wider shooting options
Professional Work	Limited manual controls, no RAW support	RAW, manual modes, complete exposure options good for some pro workflows

Overall Performance and Value

This gallery showcases comparative shoots: landscapes, portraits, macro, and zoom shots. The ZS40’s images exhibit greater sharpness, color depth, and better noise control.

Summarizing our technical and field assessments:

Feature Area	Panasonic FP3	Panasonic ZS40
Image Quality	Fair	Good-Excellent
Handling & Controls	Basic	Advanced
Autofocus Performance	Limited	Reliable & fast
Zoom Range	4x optical zoom	30x superzoom
Video Quality	720p only	1080p 60fps
Connectivity & Features	Basic	WiFi, GPS, EVF
Battery Life	Unknown	Good (~300 shots)
Price (Street)	~$180	~$450

Final Thoughts: Which Camera is Right for You?

Choose the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 if...

• You want an incredibly slim, pocketable camera for basic snapshots
• Portability and ease of use outweigh manual control and image quality
• Your budget is tight, and you want a simple point-and-shoot experience
• Video shooting is casual and limited to 720p HD

Choose the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 if...

• You desire versatility with a huge zoom range from wide-angle to 720 mm telephoto
• Manual controls, RAW support, and a quality EVF are important to your workflow
• You’re a travel photographer needing GPS and wireless connectivity
• You shoot portraits and wildlife that require reliable continuous AF and faster burst rates
• Full HD video and improved low-light capability matter to you

Getting Started with Your New Camera

Whichever model you lean toward, I recommend physically holding and operating the cameras if possible. Ergonomics are personal, and direct trial helps confirm comfort and usability.

Complement your choice with appropriate accessories:

• For the FP3, consider a wrist strap and an extra SD card since battery info is limited.
• For the ZS40, invest in a spare battery and a compact travel case, especially if zooming outdoors.

Explore Panasonic’s rich lens ecosystem stranger - even though these cameras have fixed lenses, their design suits photographers upgrading to interchangeable lens cameras down the road.

Final Recommendation Summary Table

Feature / Use Case	Panasonic FP3	Panasonic ZS40
Beginner Friendly	Yes, simple controls	Moderate learning curve
Portability	Excellent	Good, but bulkier
Image Quality	Average	High
Zoom Range	Limited (4x)	Exceptional (30x)
Autofocus Performance	Basic, slower	Fast, face and tracking AF
Video	Basic 720p only	Full HD 1080p 60fps + IS
Manual Control & RAW	No	Yes
Connectivity	None	WiFi + GPS
Price Point	Budget (~$180)	Mid-range (~$450)

Wrapping Up

Both Panasonic cameras offer unique propositions: The FP3 is a no-fuss ultracompact ideal if you want a carry-anywhere backup or first step into photography. Meanwhile, the ZS40 is a much more capable travel zoom camera, blending advanced features with excellent image quality and versatility.

Take time to analyze your shooting priorities. If you want crisp daytime photos without complexity, the FP3 can deliver. But if thrilling forests, distant wildlife, or cityscapes under varying conditions excite you - the ZS40 is the worthy upgrade.

Feel free to check out these models at your local store or online, compare sample galleries, and read user reviews. There’s no substitute for hands-on experience when finding the perfect companion for your visual storytelling journey.

Happy shooting!