Panasonic ZR1 vs Panasonic ZS3

Here, we will be looking at the Panasonic ZR1 vs Panasonic ZS3, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both sold by Panasonic. The resolution of the ZR1 (12MP) and the ZS3 (10MP) is relatively close and both cameras offer the identical sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The ZR1 was introduced 3 months after the ZS3 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a detailed comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the ZR1 grades vs the ZS3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

For those who are going to travel with your camera frequently, you should factor its weight and size. The Panasonic ZR1 offers outside dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS3 has specifications of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZR1 vs Panasonic ZS3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the ZR1 compared to the ZS3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZR1 and ZS3 is 94 and 91 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to visualize the gap in sensor dimensions purely by looking through a spec sheet. The picture underneath should give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZR1 and ZS3.

Clearly, both of those cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different MP. You should count on the Panasonic ZR1 to provide you with more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots a good deal more aggressively.