Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic SZ1

Here is a extended assessment of the Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic SZ1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras and they are both built by Panasonic. The resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the SZ1 (16MP) is pretty similar and both cameras have the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S3 was introduced 12 months before the SZ1 and they are both of a similar age. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple summation of how the S3 grades versus the SZ1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic S3 Gallery & Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic S3 provides exterior dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ1 has dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic SZ1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are using at the time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the S3 compared to the SZ1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the S3 and SZ1 is 96 and 95 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizing only by reviewing specifications. The graphic below should offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S3 and SZ1.

Plainly, each of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Panasonic SZ1 to offer you extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop photographs more aggressively. The older S3 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.