Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic S3

Its time to take a more detailed look at the Panasonic FZ100 versus Panasonic S3, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are designed by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FZ100 (14MP) and the S3 (14MP) is relatively close and both cameras provide the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ100 was introduced 5 months prior to the S3 so they are of a similar generation. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a full comparison, here is a simple summation of how the FZ100 matches up versus the S3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FZ100 Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you will have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ100 features outer measurements of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") having a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) whilst the Panasonic S3 has dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FZ100 versus Panasonic S3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are using at the time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the FZ100 vs the S3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FZ100 and S3 is 67 and 96 respectively.

More often than not, it is very tough to envision the difference in sensor dimensions purely by researching technical specs. The picture below might provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the FZ100 and S3.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the identical megapixels so you should expect comparable quality of photos but you will want to consider the release date of the cameras into account.