Panasonic LX3 vs Panasonic XS1

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic LX3 versus Panasonic XS1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras and both are designed by Panasonic. There is a significant difference among the sensor resolutions of the LX3 (10MP) and XS1 (16MP) and the LX3 (1/1.63") and XS1 (1/2.3") have different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The LX3 was introduced 5 years earlier than the XS1 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the LX3 matches up versus the XS1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic LX3 Gallery and Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to lug around your camera often, you'll have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic LX3 features physical measurements of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) and the Panasonic XS1 has measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") accompanied by a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic LX3 versus Panasonic XS1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are working with at that time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the LX3 versus the XS1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the LX3 and XS1 is 91 and 97 respectively.

Often, it is very hard to imagine the contrast in sensor measurements merely by checking out a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the LX3 and XS1.

Clearly, both of the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The LX3 using its larger sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field simpler and the Panasonic XS1 will show greater detail using its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop photos way more aggressively. The older LX3 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.