Panasonic ZS3 has a 10.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.08 x 4.56 mm ) sized CCD sensor . On the other hand, Panasonic XS1 has a 16.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.08 x 4.56 mm ) sized CCD sensor .
Panasonic XS1'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 ZS3 and XS1 sensor size comparison.
![Panasonic ZS3 vs Panasonic XS1 Sensor Size Comparison]()
Sensor Size and Resolution Comparison image of Panasonic ZS3 and Panasonic XS1 Cameras
Panasonic ZS3 and Panasonic XS1 have 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 compared to Panasonic XS1, it has potential to collect more light on pixel level hence have less noise in low light / High ISO images.