Panasonic S3 vs Pentax W60

The following is a comprehensive assessment of the Panasonic S3 and Pentax W60, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the S3 (14MP) and W60 (10MP) but they possess the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S3 was revealed 19 months after the W60 making the cameras a generation away from each other. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a detailed comparison, below is a short summation of how the S3 grades vs the W60 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 and Pentax Optio W60. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic S3 Gallery and Pentax W60 Gallery.

For those who are looking to travel with your camera, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S3 has physical 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) while the Pentax W60 has measurements of 98mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S3 and Pentax W60 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use at that moment. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the S3 and the W60.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the S3 and W60 is 96 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to picture the gap in sensor dimensions merely by viewing technical specs. The image here may give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the S3 and W60.

As you have seen, each of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You should anticipate the Panasonic S3 to result in greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop pics a little more aggressively. The newer S3 provides a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.