Panasonic S3 has a
14.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.08 x 4.56 mm ) sized CCD sensor and features Venus Engine IV processor. On the other hand, Panasonic S1 has a
12.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.08 x 4.56 mm ) sized CCD sensor and features Venus Engine IV processor.
Below you can see the S3 and S1 sensor size comparison.
Sensor Size and Resolution Comparison image of Panasonic S3 and Panasonic S1 Cameras
Panasonic S3 and Panasonic S1 have the same sensor sizes so they will provide same level of control over the depth of field when used with same focal length and aperture. On the other hand, since Panasonic S1 has 16% larger pixel area (2.31µm 2 vs 1.98µm 2 ) compared to Panasonic S3, it has larger pixel area to collect light hence potential to have less noise in low light / High ISO images.
Sensor size sets the circle of confusion, so it drives how much depth of field each
of these bodies gives you at a given aperture. You can calculate it exactly for the
Panasonic S3
or the
Panasonic S1 ,
including hyperfocal distance.
