Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS50

Let's take a more detailed look at the Panasonic S3 and Panasonic ZS50, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are sold by Panasonic. The image resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the ZS50 (12MP) is very well matched and both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S3 was introduced 5 years prior to the ZS50 and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a complete comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the S3 matches up versus the ZS50 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic S3 Gallery and Panasonic ZS50 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera often, you need to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic S3 has got external measurements 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 ZS50 has proportions of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs).

See the Panasonic S3 and Panasonic ZS50 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the S3 vs the ZS50.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the S3 and ZS50 is 96 and 90 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing purely by looking at a spec sheet. The visual below may give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the S3 and ZS50.

Clearly, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but not the same resolution. You should expect to see the Panasonic S3 to give you more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos more aggressively. The older S3 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.