Panasonic ZR3 vs Samsung WB850F

On this page, we are matching up the Panasonic ZR3 and Samsung WB850F, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Samsung. The sensor resolution of the ZR3 (14MP) and the WB850F (16MP) is very comparable and both cameras boast the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The ZR3 was revealed 23 months before the WB850F making them a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a full comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the ZR3 grades vs the WB850F in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 and Samsung WB850F. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery and Samsung WB850F Gallery.

For those who are looking to lug around your camera often, you are going to need to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZR3 offers outer dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Samsung WB850F has sizing of 109mm x 62mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.0") with a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZR3 and Samsung WB850F in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the ZR3 compared to the WB850F.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZR3 and WB850F is 94 and 91 respectively.

Normally, its tough to visualise the difference in sensor measurements merely by checking out a spec sheet. The visual below may provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZR3 and WB850F.

Clearly, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same resolution. You should expect to see the Samsung WB850F to produce greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The older ZR3 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.