Panasonic created a winner in the point and shoot “zoom” category with the Lumix DMC-TZ5. Just about one year later, they have given us the Lumix DMC-ZS1 and the DMC-ZS3. (In the European market they are known as the TZ6 and TZ7 respectively. Am I alone in thinking that continuing the “TZ” brand would make more logical sense? And why is there no ZS2?)

This article will compare the Lumix ZS1 and ZS3.

Beginning with the basic specifications that are identical in both cameras:

• 10.1 Megapixels
• 12x Zoom Range (25-300mm)
• Optical Image Stabilization
• 80-6400 ISO Range
• 27 Scene Modes with Intelligent Auto
• Image Quality rated highest among Digital Compacts with similar features (DPReview.com)

The features that are different (ZS1
vs
ZS3):

• LCD – 2.7″ (230k resolution) vs 3.0″ (460k)
• Image Sensor – 1/2.5″ vs 1/2.33″
• Video – 848×480 30fps video w/mono sound vs 720p 60fps video w/stereo sound

These 3 features add just
over $100 to the price tag
for the ZS3. Yet, in spite of the extra $$$, the Lumix ZS3 is outselling its ZS1 cousin by a large margin. Why??

The reason is that most digital compact camera users are now quite comfortable with using their “point and shoot” camera for their basic video needs. And the difference in this feature is significant when you consider many folks are now viewing on big screen HD televisions.

The other big difference is the LCD screen. While 0.3″ does not seem that big of a deal, when added to double the pixel resolution (230,000 vs 460,000), the view quality of the live view and playback is significant.

With respect to image quality and printing images, in a comparison test against other super zoom cameras, the ZS1 and ZS3 were dual winners at DPReview.com.

The final word comes from those who have actually purchased the camera for personal use. After all, the consumer has the last word in satisfaction.

Checking the user reviews at DPReview.com and Amazon.com, both cameras rated highly – at least 4.16 out of 5. In fact, at Amazon, the Lumix ZS1 rated at an impressive 4.67 (out of 5).

As you make your digital camera buying decision, keep the Panasonic Lumix ZS1 and ZS3 in mind. And do not forget about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5, which has the same features as the more expensive ZS3 with respect to video and image quality (there have been some upgrades to the way video is recorded in the ZS3 that take up less storage space and give the user an option as to the recording mode, but the TZ5 video is comparable to its newer sibling). Picking up the TZ5 would produce a savings of more than $150.

Much more about highly rated cameras and photo related information is available at http://www.digital-photographic-resources.com.

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