Panasonic SZ3 vs Sony S980

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Panasonic SZ3 versus Sony S980, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There exists a significant gap between the resolutions of the SZ3 (16MP) and S980 (12MP) but they use the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ3 was unveiled 3 years after the S980 which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a detailed comparison, below is a short highlight of how the SZ3 grades vs the S980 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ3 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you're going to have to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ3 enjoys outer measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Sony S980 has sizing of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic SZ3 versus Sony S980 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing during that time. The following is the front view size comparison of the SZ3 versus the S980.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ3 and S980 is 96 and 94 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizes only by checking specifications. The pic underneath will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ3 and S980.

To sum up, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Panasonic SZ3 to give you greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The younger SZ3 is going to have an advantage in sensor technology.