Panasonic XS1 vs Panasonic ZS3

Its time to take a deeper look at the Panasonic XS1 versus Panasonic ZS3, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are manufactured by Panasonic. There exists a big gap between the resolutions of the XS1 (16MP) and ZS3 (10MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The XS1 was unveiled 3 years later than the ZS3 and that is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the XS1 grades vs the ZS3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The full galleries are available at Panasonic XS1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera, you will want to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic XS1 offers external measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") accompanied by a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS3 has specifications of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check the Panasonic XS1 versus Panasonic ZS3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the XS1 vs the ZS3.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the XS1 and ZS3 is 97 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizing purely by looking at a spec sheet. The visual here will offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the XS1 and ZS3.

Clearly, each of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You should expect the Panasonic XS1 to give you extra detail having an extra 6MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots more aggressively. The fresher XS1 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.