Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax S1

The following is a in depth comparison of the Panasonic ZS3 versus Pentax S1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizable difference among the sensor resolutions of the ZS3 (10MP) and S1 (14MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The ZS3 was revealed 21 months before the S1 making them a generation away from each other. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a detailed comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the ZS3 grades vs the S1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 & Pentax Optio S1. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS3 Gallery & Pentax S1 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to travel with your camera often, you'll have to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS3 comes with physical dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax S1 has sizing of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS3 versus Pentax S1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose at the time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the ZS3 compared to the S1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS3 and S1 is 91 and 93 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to envision the gap in sensor dimensions merely by going through a spec sheet. The picture below might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS3 and S1.

As you can see, both of those cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same megapixels. You can anticipate the Pentax S1 to produce more detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more aged ZS3 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.