Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS8

Below is a comprehensive assessment of the Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS8, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are produced by Panasonic. The image resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the ZS8 (14MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras boast the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S3 was manufactured 6 months prior to the ZS8 so they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a in depth comparison, here is a brief view of how the S3 grades against the ZS8 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic S3 Gallery and Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

If you are looking to lug around your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic S3 has outside measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS8 has specifications of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic S3 vs Panasonic ZS8 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the S3 vs the ZS8.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the S3 and ZS8 is 96 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it's difficult to visualize the difference between sensor measurements simply by looking at a spec sheet. The visual underneath should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the S3 and ZS8.

As you can see, each of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same exact megapixels so you should expect similar quality of files however you might want to factor the release date of the products into consideration.