Panasonic S3 vs Pentax RZ18

Lets take a more detailed look at the Panasonic S3 vs Pentax RZ18, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the RZ18 (16MP) is relatively close and both cameras offer the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The S3 was revealed 8 months earlier than the RZ18 so they are of a similar age. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a thorough comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the S3 grades versus the RZ18 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic S3 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry around your camera regularly, you'll need to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S3 enjoys physical dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) whilst the Pentax RZ18 has measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S3 vs Pentax RZ18 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached during that time. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the S3 against the RZ18.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S3 and RZ18 is 96 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizes purely by looking through a spec sheet. The picture below may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the S3 and RZ18.

As you can see, each of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You can count on the Pentax RZ18 to provide you with greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more aged S3 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.