Panasonic FZ47 vs Panasonic SZ3

Here is a in-depth assessment of the Panasonic FZ47 and Panasonic SZ3, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are offered by Panasonic. There is a substantial difference among the resolutions of the FZ47 (12MP) and SZ3 (16MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The FZ47 was launched 17 months before the SZ3 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FZ47 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the FZ47 matches up vs the SZ3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ47 Gallery & Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic FZ47 provides outer dimensions of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") having a weight of 498 grams (1.10 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ3 has sizing of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FZ47 and Panasonic SZ3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the FZ47 versus the SZ3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ47 and SZ3 is 68 and 96 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to see the difference in sensor sizing only by researching technical specs. The visual underneath might provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ47 and SZ3.

As you have seen, the two cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You can count on the Panasonic SZ3 to result in greater detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The older FZ47 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.