Panasonic FZ100 vs Panasonic SZ3

Here, we are comparing the Panasonic FZ100 and Panasonic SZ3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both designed by Panasonic. The resolution of the FZ100 (14MP) and the SZ3 (16MP) is very similar and both cameras boast the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ100 was unveiled 3 years before the SZ3 and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FZ100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the FZ100 grades versus the SZ3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FZ100 Gallery and Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

If you are looking to lug around your camera often, you should take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic FZ100 enjoys outer dimensions of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") and a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ3 has specifications of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic FZ100 and Panasonic SZ3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the FZ100 vs the SZ3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ100 and SZ3 is 67 and 96 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements just by going over a spec sheet. The photograph underneath should offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ100 and SZ3.

As you can see, both of the cameras come with the identical sensor size but different MP. You should expect to see the Panasonic SZ3 to deliver greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images a good deal more aggressively. The older FZ100 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.