Panasonic

Panasonic DMC-SZ3K Lumix 16.1MP 20x Zoom Digital Camera

4.0 (163 reviews)

Slim 16.1MP compact camera with 10x optical zoom and optical image stabilization for sharp everyday shots.

$298.98*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 20, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 is a compact digital camera built for users who want genuine optical zoom range without the bulk of a larger camera. Its 10x optical zoom lens covers 25mm to 250mm in 35mm equivalent terms, making it versatile enough for wide-angle group shots, landscape scenes, and distant subjects alike. The 20x intelligent zoom extends that reach further by blending optical and digital magnification with minimal quality loss. A 16.1-megapixel CCD sensor captures detailed stills suitable for prints and online sharing.

Panasonic's MEGA O.I.S. optical image stabilization is a key feature, physically shifting lens elements to compensate for hand movement — particularly valuable when shooting at the telephoto end of the zoom range. The camera records HD video at 720p for casual clips, and its slim black body slips easily into a pocket or small bag. While it lacks the wireless connectivity and advanced video capabilities of more modern compacts, the DMC-SZ3 remains a solid choice for straightforward, travel-friendly still photography.

Specifications

Brand
Panasonic
Model
DMC-SZ3K
Sensor
16.1 MP CCD
Optical Zoom
10x
Intelligent Zoom
20x
Focal Length
25–250mm (35mm equivalent)
Image Stabilization
MEGA O.I.S.
Video Recording
HD 1280 x 720
Color
Black

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • 10x optical zoom with a 25-250mm range covers wide-angle to telephoto in a pocket-sized body
  • MEGA O.I.S. optical stabilization helps keep handheld shots sharp, especially at full zoom
  • 16.1MP CCD sensor produces detailed still images for prints and sharing
  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in a pocket or small bag
  • 25mm wide-angle starting focal length is useful for group photos and tight spaces

👎 Cons

  • HD video tops out at 720p, falling short of the 1080p standard most users now expect
  • CCD sensor and older processor may struggle with noise in low-light conditions
  • No Wi-Fi or wireless connectivity for quick sharing to mobile devices
  • No raw file shooting — JPEG only limits post-processing flexibility
  • The rear LCD is a fixed screen with no touchscreen or tilting capability

Frequently Asked Questions

The 10x optical zoom uses the physical lens to magnify without quality loss. The 20x intelligent zoom combines optical zoom with digital processing to extend reach while minimizing visible quality degradation, though pure optical zoom always produces the sharpest results.
Yes, it records HD video at 1280 x 720 resolution, suitable for casual video clips and sharing online.
It uses Panasonic's MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization), which physically adjusts lens elements to counteract hand shake and reduce blur.
The lens starts at a 25mm equivalent focal length, providing a moderately wide angle that works well for group shots, landscapes, and indoor scenes.
Based on the listed specifications, the DMC-SZ3K does not include built-in Wi-Fi. Photos must be transferred via USB cable or by removing the memory card.