Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic SZ3

Here is a extended comparison of the Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic SZ3, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are created by Panasonic. The resolution of the FZ40 (14MP) and the SZ3 (16MP) is very close and both cameras have the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ40 was launched 3 years earlier than the SZ3 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go into a in depth comparison, here is a brief summary of how the FZ40 grades vs the SZ3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic FZ40 Gallery & Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera, you are going to need to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic FZ40 has physical dimensions of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") having a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) and 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).

Look at the Panasonic FZ40 vs Panasonic SZ3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you select at that time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the FZ40 versus the SZ3.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the FZ40 and SZ3 is 68 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to envision the gap in sensor sizing simply by researching a spec sheet. The visual underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ40 and SZ3.

Clearly, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but not the same resolution. You can expect to see the Panasonic SZ3 to result in extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics more aggressively. The older FZ40 will be behind in sensor innovation.