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 Samsung TL500 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). Samsung TL500 has external dimensions of 114 x 63 x 29 mm (4.49 x 2.48 x 1.14″) and weighs 386 g (0.85 lb / 13.62 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS3 and the Samsung TL500. Panasonic ZS3 is 11mm narrower and 3mm shorter than Samsung TL500 but it is also 4mm thicker.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS3 and Samsung TL500.
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 (157g ) than the Samsung TL500 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 (Lumix DMC-TZ7) nor Samsung TL500 (EX1) 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
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic ZS3 and Samsung TL500's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
On the other hand, Samsung TL500 sports a
Fully Articulated screen which you can change the angle and position of the screen almost freely, making it possible to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels, and especially very useful for shooting selfies and video. Panasonic ZS3's LCD screen is a fixed type which provides almost no flexibility in shooting positions compared to TL500.