Panasonic LZ20 vs Panasonic ZS3

Here is a thorough overview of the Panasonic LZ20 vs Panasonic ZS3, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras and they are both offered by Panasonic. There is a substantial difference among the image resolutions of the LZ20 (16MP) and ZS3 (10MP) but they feature the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The LZ20 was announced 3 years later than the ZS3 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a simple overview of how the LZ20 grades vs the ZS3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic LZ20 Gallery & Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic LZ20 comes with outside dimensions of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") and a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS3 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic LZ20 vs Panasonic ZS3 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have chosen at the time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the LZ20 versus the ZS3.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the LZ20 and ZS3 is 71 and 91 respectively.

Generally, its hard to see the difference in sensor sizing merely by seeing specifications. The visual here may provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the LZ20 and ZS3.

To sum up, both the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Panasonic LZ20 to show more detail with its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more modern LZ20 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.