Panasonic FS15 vs Panasonic ZR3

Here is a in-depth comparison of the Panasonic FS15 versus Panasonic ZR3, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both offered by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FS15 (12MP) and the ZR3 (14MP) is pretty similar and they feature the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FS15 was manufactured 12 months before the ZR3 so they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS15 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic ZR3 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the FS15 grades against the ZR3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS15 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS15 Gallery & Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera regularly, you need to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic FS15 comes with exterior dimensions of 97mm x 54mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs) and the Panasonic ZR3 has sizing of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

See the Panasonic FS15 versus Panasonic ZR3 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the FS15 vs the ZR3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the FS15 and ZR3 is 95 and 94 respectively.

Often, its tough to see the contrast between sensor sizing merely by reviewing specifications. The graphic below will help provide you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the FS15 and ZR3.

To sum up, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Panasonic ZR3 to offer you extra detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs far more aggressively. The older FS15 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.