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Panasonic Lumix ZS3
Panasonic Lumix ZS3
B+
HQ Grade: B+
A is outstanding and exceptional, rated in the top 10% of digital cameras.
B means they are good, with some standout features.
C means they are mediocre, and probably more trouble than they are worth.
D & F mean they are absolutely awful or old. Avoid at all costs.
  • 4 out of 5
"TZ3 3 weeks in"
  • 5 out of 5
"GREAT CAM"
See rating based on 416 user reviews
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Panasonic Lumix ZS3 Details

Editors' Comments

[Read our full Panasonic ZS3 review] Panasonic has always dominated the "fun zoom" point-and-shoot category, and the ZS3 reaffirms that superiority. Other manufacturers like Canon, Casio, and Olympus have entered their previously untouched market space, but Panasonic is still the winner. They stuffed an extended zoom into an ultracompact body with great results. The 12x MEGA optical image-stabilized zoom system ensures that every photo features stunning color, contrast, and image sharpness. It also features an intuitive one-button 720p HD video mode. There are other cameras like the ZS3, but this is the king of the crop.

Panasonic ZS3 Specifications

  • 10.1-megapixel sensor
  • 12x MEGA optical image-stabilized zoom
  • 25mm ultra-wide-angle lens
  • 720p HD video
  • Intelligent Auto (iA) mode
  • Face Recognition feature
  • Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)

Roundups featuring Panasonic Lumix ZS3

  • Panasonic Lumix ZS3 Digital Camera Review

    An early look at an interesting digital camera set to introduce a new improvement to HD video recording. By Michael Patrick Brady
  • 2009's All New Extended Zoom Cameras

    These are the latest and greatest long zoom cameras available from manufacturers like Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, and Olympus. Perfect for serious photographers looking for SLR-like power without the added cost and maintenance of interchangeable lenses, these extended zoom cameras are a happy medium.
  • HD Digital Camera Preview

    This year, high-definition movie modes are becoming common on digital cameras, and if you're looking for a great, HD-capable digital camera that can slide in your pocket, you may want to consider these appealing models.
  • HD Video: Consider a Camera

    Camcorders seem to have split into two groups: the very expensive and the very inexpensive. While the former have robust feature sets, they're saddled with exorbitant price tags. The latter are more affordable, but lack necessary functions that consumers have come to expect. Surprisingly, digital cameras might be just the thing to fill the mid-range, mid-price gap. Read on to see why.
  • Pure Digital Flip UltraHD Review

    The Pure Digital Flip UltraHD doesn't change the formula too much. It's cheap, easy, and takes alright video. Provided you don't move too much. By Michael Patrick Brady
  • Panasonic Lumix ZS3 Review

    The Panasonic Lumix ZS3 is an impressive digital camera that blends powerful features like a 12x optical zoom and HD video mode, with user-friendly, intelligent performance. By Brenda Paro
  • Best Fun Zoom Cameras

    "Fun zoom," isn't an official, industry-recognized term. It's just what we like to call the range of point-and-shoots with good picture quality, ease of use, portability, and big zooms. They're kind of like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord of digital cameras--solid, mid-range products that are built to perform well, even if they aren't the most glamorous or luxurious out on the market. See how we rate four of them below.

Product Information

Manufacturer Panasonic
Part Number DMC-ZS3S
UPC 037988989027
Release Date Apr 1, 2009

Compare Panasonic ZS3 to:

Competing Brands:

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Good Fun Zoom, But Better Ones Out There

Olympus Stylus 9000

Grade: B+
HQ Grade: B+
A is outstanding and exceptional, rated in the top 10% of digital cameras.
B means they are good, with some standout features.
C means they are mediocre, and probably more trouble than they are worth.
D & F mean they are absolutely awful or old. Avoid at all costs.
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A Stylish Long-Zoom Ultracompact

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Grade: A-
HQ Grade: A-
A is outstanding and exceptional, rated in the top 10% of digital cameras.
B means they are good, with some standout features.
C means they are mediocre, and probably more trouble than they are worth.
D & F mean they are absolutely awful or old. Avoid at all costs.
from $289.00
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