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 ZS5 and Panasonic ZS3 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Panasonic ZS5 has external dimensions of 103 x 60 x 32 mm (4.06 x 2.36 x 1.26″) and weighs 214 g (0.47 lb / 7.55 oz) (including batteries). 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).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS5 and the Panasonic ZS3. Panasonic ZS5 has the same height and width with Panasonic ZS3. On the other hand, with a thickness of 32mm, it is 1mm thinner.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS5 and Panasonic ZS3.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Panasonic ZS5 and Panasonic ZS3.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic ZS5 is 15g lighter than the Panasonic ZS3 but we don't think this will make a significant difference.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 (Lumix DMC-TZ8) nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 (Lumix DMC-TZ7) 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's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Panasonic ZS5's 2.7 screen.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.