Panasonic SZ3 vs Panasonic ZS40

In this article, we are contrasting the Panasonic SZ3 versus Panasonic ZS40, 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 SZ3 (16MP) and the ZS40 (18MP) is very close and they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ3 was launched 12 months earlier than the ZS40 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple overview of how the SZ3 grades versus the ZS40 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ3 Gallery and Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera frequently, you should consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ3 has got external dimensions of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS40 has sizing of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic SZ3 versus Panasonic ZS40 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the SZ3 versus the ZS40.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ3 and ZS40 is 96 and 90 respectively.

Often, its difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing purely by looking through specs. The photograph here may offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ3 and ZS40.

All in all, the two cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZS40 to provide you with more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos far more aggressively. The older SZ3 will be behind in sensor innovation.