Panasonic ZR3 vs Panasonic ZS20

Following is a comprehensive assessment of the Panasonic ZR3 and Panasonic ZS20, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both built by Panasonic. The resolution of the ZR3 (14MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is very comparable and they possess the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The ZR3 was announced 3 years before the ZS20 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a full comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the ZR3 grades against the ZS20 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery & Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera, you will need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZR3 features outer dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS20 has dimensions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic ZR3 and Panasonic ZS20 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Below is the front view size comparison of the ZR3 and the ZS20.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the ZR3 and ZS20 is 94 and 92 respectively.

Often, its difficult to picture the difference in sensor sizes merely by going through technical specs. The pic below will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZR3 and ZS20.

As you have seen, both the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the exact same resolution so you can expect comparable quality of images but you have to factor the launch date of the cameras into account. The more aged ZR3 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.