Panasonic ZS3 vs Samsung HZ50W

On this page, we are analyzing the Panasonic ZS3 versus Samsung HZ50W, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Panasonic and Samsung. There is a huge difference between the sensor resolutions of the ZS3 (10MP) and HZ50W (14MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS3 was revealed 11 months earlier than the HZ50W which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera and the Samsung HZ50W being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving into a more detailed comparison, here is a short summary of how the ZS3 grades versus the HZ50W with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 and Samsung HZ50W. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS3 Gallery and Samsung HZ50W Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera, you will want to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS3 has outside 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 Samsung HZ50W has specifications of 116mm x 83mm x 91mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS3 versus Samsung HZ50W in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have at that time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the ZS3 compared to the HZ50W.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the ZS3 and HZ50W is 91 and 70 respectively.

Usually, it's tough to visualize the gap between sensor measurements only by reviewing technical specs. The photograph below will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS3 and HZ50W.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You should expect to see the Samsung HZ50W to offer you more detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The older ZS3 is going to be behind in sensor technology.