Panasonic SZ3 has a
16.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.08 x 4.56 mm ) sized CCD sensor . On the other hand, Panasonic ZS3 has a
10.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.08 x 4.56 mm ) sized CCD sensor .
Panasonic SZ3's sensor provides 6MP more than Panasonic ZS3's sensor, which gives a significant advantage in real life. You can print your images larger or crop more freely.
On the other hand, please keep in mind that Max sensor resolution is not the only determinant of resolving power. Factors such as the optical elements, low pass filter, pixel size and sensor technology also affects the final resolution of the captured image.
Below you can see the SZ3 and ZS3 sensor size comparison.
Sensor Size and Resolution Comparison image of Panasonic SZ3 and Panasonic ZS3 Cameras
Panasonic SZ3 and Panasonic ZS3 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 ZS3 has 59% larger pixel area (2.78µm 2 vs 1.74µm 2 ) compared to Panasonic SZ3, 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 SZ3
or the
Panasonic ZS3 ,
including hyperfocal distance.
