Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS40

Here is a extensive analysis of the Panasonic S3 versus Panasonic ZS40, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both designed by Panasonic. There is a sizable difference among the sensor resolutions of the S3 (14MP) and ZS40 (18MP) but they come with the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The S3 was revealed 4 years earlier than the ZS40 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a full comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the S3 scores vs the ZS40 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The full galleries are available at Panasonic S3 Gallery & Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera frequently, you have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S3 enjoys outside 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 ZS40 has measurements of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S3 versus Panasonic ZS40 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the S3 versus the ZS40.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the S3 and ZS40 is 96 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizing just by looking through specs. The visual underneath might offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S3 and ZS40.

All in all, both of the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but different resolution. You can expect to see the Panasonic ZS40 to result in greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The older S3 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.