Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Panasonic ZS3 and Nikon P100 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Panasonic ZS3 has external dimensions of 103 x 60 x 33 mm (4.06 x 2.36 x 1.3″) and weighs 229 g (0.50 lb / 8.08 oz) (including batteries). Nikon P100 has external dimensions of 114 x 83 x 99 mm (4.49 x 3.27 x 3.9″) and weighs 481 g (1.06 lb / 16.97 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS3 and the Nikon P100. Panasonic ZS3 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 11mm narrower, 23mm shorter and 66mm thinner than Nikon P100.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS3 and Nikon P100.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Panasonic ZS3 and Nikon P100.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic ZS3 is significantly lighter (252g ) than the Nikon P100 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 (Lumix DMC-TZ7) nor Nikon Coolpix P100 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Bridge Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic ZS3 and Nikon P100's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
On the other hand, Nikon P100 features a
Tilting screen where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels whereas the Panasonic ZS3 has a fixed type screen which provides less flexibility in shooting positions compared to P100.