Panasonic SZ3 vs Samsung HZ30W

In this article, we are looking at the Panasonic SZ3 and Samsung HZ30W, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Samsung. There is a huge difference among the resolutions of the SZ3 (16MP) and HZ30W (12MP) but they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SZ3 was revealed 3 years later than the HZ30W and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a in-depth comparison, below is a simple summary of how the SZ3 grades against the HZ30W in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 and Samsung HZ30W. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ3 Gallery and Samsung HZ30W Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic SZ3 has outside measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Samsung HZ30W has proportions of 107mm x 61mm x 28mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic SZ3 and Samsung HZ30W in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that time. The following is the front view size comparison of the SZ3 compared to the HZ30W.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the SZ3 and HZ30W is 96 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to see the contrast in sensor sizing purely by researching a spec sheet. The photograph below will give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ3 and HZ30W.

As you can see, the 2 cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Panasonic SZ3 to render greater detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images far more aggressively. The younger SZ3 is going to have an edge in sensor technology.