Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS3

Lets take a more detailed look at the Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS3, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are built by Panasonic. There is a crucial difference among the image resolutions of the S3 (14MP) and ZS3 (10MP) but they enjoy the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The S3 was unveiled 21 months after the ZS3 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple view of how the S3 matches up vs the ZS3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic S3 Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic S3 comes with exterior measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS3 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Below is the front view scale comparison of the S3 versus the ZS3.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the S3 and ZS3 is 96 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to envision the gap in sensor sizes simply by researching specs. The pic below might provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the S3 and ZS3.

All in all, both the cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Panasonic S3 to render more detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots much more aggressively. The fresher S3 will have an edge with regard to sensor technology.