Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS20

Let's look closer at the Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS20, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both designed by Panasonic. The resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is very comparable and they enjoy the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The S3 was manufactured 15 months earlier than the ZS20 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the S3 scores vs the ZS20 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic S3 Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera frequently, you will want to take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S3 has external dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS20 has measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS20 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen at the time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the S3 and the ZS20.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the S3 and ZS20 is 96 and 92 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to imagine the gap in sensor sizes just by checking out a spec sheet. The image here may offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the S3 and ZS20.

As you can see, both of those cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the exact same MP therefore you should expect comparable quality of photos however you will need to factor the release date of the cameras into account. The more aged S3 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.