Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS25

Its time to look much closer at the Panasonic S3 and Panasonic ZS25, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are produced by Panasonic. The resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the ZS25 (16MP) is relatively comparable and they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S3 was introduced 24 months prior to the ZS25 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a full comparison, below is a concise summary of how the S3 grades against the ZS25 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS25. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic S3 Gallery & Panasonic ZS25 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera often, you have to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S3 has got physical dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS25 has measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic S3 and Panasonic ZS25 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the S3 compared to the ZS25.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S3 and ZS25 is 96 and 93 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizing purely by going through a spec sheet. The visual underneath will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the S3 and ZS25.

As you can see, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You can count on the Panasonic ZS25 to show greater detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The older S3 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.