Panasonic S1R vs Fujifilm X-E3

The Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R and the Fujifilm X-E3 are two digital cameras that were officially introduced, respectively, in February 2019 and September 2017. Both the S1R and the X-E3 are mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras that are based on a full frame (S1R) and an APS-C (X-E3) sensor. The Panasonic has a resolution of 46.7 megapixels, whereas the Fujifilm provides 24 MP.

Below is an overview of the main specs of the two cameras as a starting point for the comparison.

Headline Specifications

Panasonic S1R		Fujifilm X-E3
Mirrorless system camera		Mirrorless system camera
Leica L mount lenses		Fujifilm X mount lenses
46.7 MP, Full Frame Sensor		24 MP, APS-C Sensor
4K/60p Video		4K/30p Video
ISO 100-25600 (50-51200)		ISO 200-12800 (100-51200)
Electronic viewfinder (5760k dots)		Electronic viewfinder (2360k dots)
3.2" LCD, 2100k dots		3.0" LCD, 1040k dots
Fully flexible touchscreen		Fixed touchscreen
9 shutter flaps per second		8 shutter flaps per second
In-body stabilization		Lens stabilization only
Weathersealed body		Not weather sealed
380 shots per battery charge		350 shots per battery charge
149 x 110 x 97 mm, 1016 g		121 x 74 x 43 mm, 337 g

Going beyond this snapshot of core features and characteristics, what are the differences between the Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R and the Fujifilm X-E3? Which one should you buy? Read on to find out how these two cameras compare with respect to their body size, their imaging sensors, their shooting features, their input-output connections, and their reception by expert reviewers.

Body comparison

An illustration of the physical size and weight of the Panasonic S1R and the Fujifilm X-E3 is provided in the side-by-side display below. The two cameras are presented according to their relative size. Three consecutive views from the front, the top, and the rear side are shown. All width, height and depth measures are rounded to the nearest millimeter.

The X-E3 can be obtained in two different colors (black, silver), while the S1R is only available in black.

If the front view area (width x height) of the cameras is taken as an aggregate measure of their size, the Fujifilm X-E3 is considerably smaller (45 percent) than the Panasonic S1R. Moreover, the X-E3 is substantially lighter (67 percent) than the S1R. It is worth mentioning in this context that the S1R is splash and dust resistant, while the X-E3 does not feature any corresponding weather-sealing.

The above size and weight comparisons are to some extent incomplete since they do not consider the interchangeable lenses that both of these cameras require. Hence, you might want to study and compare the specifications of available lenses in order to get the full picture of the size and weight of the two camera systems.

Concerning battery life, the S1R gets 380 shots out of its DMW-BLJ31 battery, while the X-E3 can take 350 images on a single charge of its NP-W126S power pack. The battery packs of both cameras can be charged via USB, which can be very convenient when travelling.

The adjacent table lists the principal physical characteristics of the two cameras alongside a wider set of alternatives. If you want to switch the focus of the display and review another camera pair, just select a new right or left comparator from among the camera models in the table. Alternatively, you can also move across to the CAM-parator tool and choose from the broad selection of possible camera comparisons there.

Camera Body Specifications

	Camera Model	Camera Width	Camera Height	Camera Depth	Camera Weight	Battery Life (CIPA)	Weather Sealing (yes/no)	Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Used Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Panasonic S1R»	5.9 in	4.3 in	3.8 in	35.8 oz	380	Y	Feb 2019	3,699			Panasonic S1R
	Fujifilm X-E3«	4.8 in	2.9 in	1.7 in	11.9 oz	350	n	Sep 2017	899			Fujifilm X-E3
	Canon 5DS« »	6.0 in	4.6 in	3.0 in	32.8 oz	700	Y	Feb 2015	3,699			Canon 5DS
	Fujifilm X-T30« »	4.6 in	3.3 in	1.9 in	13.5 oz	380	n	Feb 2019	899			Fujifilm X-T30
	Fujifilm X-T20« »	4.6 in	3.3 in	1.6 in	13.5 oz	350	n	Jan 2017	899			Fujifilm X-T20
	Fujifilm X-A3« »	4.6 in	2.6 in	1.6 in	12.0 oz	410	n	Aug 2016	399	-		Fujifilm X-A3
	Fujifilm X-E2S« »	5.1 in	3.0 in	1.5 in	12.3 oz	350	n	Jan 2016	699	-		Fujifilm X-E2S
	Fujifilm X-E2« »	5.1 in	3.0 in	1.5 in	12.3 oz	350	n	Oct 2013	999	-		Fujifilm X-E2
	Nikon Z7« »	5.3 in	4.0 in	2.6 in	23.8 oz	330	Y	Aug 2018	3,399			Nikon Z7
	Nikon D850« »	5.7 in	4.9 in	3.1 in	35.5 oz	1840	Y	Jul 2017	3,299			Nikon D850
	Panasonic S1« »	5.9 in	4.3 in	3.8 in	35.9 oz	400	Y	Feb 2019	2,499			Panasonic S1
	Panasonic S1H« »	5.9 in	4.5 in	4.3 in	37.1 oz	400	Y	May 2019	3,999			Panasonic S1H
	Pentax K-1 II« »	5.4 in	4.3 in	3.4 in	35.6 oz	670	Y	Feb 2018	1,999			Pentax K-1 II
	Sony A7 III« »	5.0 in	3.8 in	2.9 in	22.9 oz	610	Y	Feb 2018	1,999			Sony A7 III
	Sony A7R III« »	5.0 in	3.8 in	2.9 in	22.9 oz	650	Y	Oct 2017	3,199	-		Sony A7R III
	Sony A99 II« »	5.6 in	4.1 in	3.0 in	29.9 oz	490	Y	Sep 2016	3,199			Sony A99 II
	Sony A850« »	6.1 in	4.6 in	3.2 in	31.6 oz	880	Y	Aug 2009	1,999	-		Sony A850
Convert to Metric
Note: Measurements and pricing do not include easily detachable parts, such as interchangeable lenses or optional viewfinders.

Any camera decision will obviously take relative prices into account. The retail prices at the time of the camera’s release place the model in the market relative to other models in the producer’s line-up and the competition. The X-E3 was launched at a markedly lower price (by 76 percent) than the S1R, which puts it into a different market segment. Usually, retail prices stay at first close to the launch price, but after several months, discounts become available. Later in the product cycle and, in particular, when the replacement model is about to appear, further discounting and stock clearance sales often push the camera price considerably down.

Sensor comparison

The size of the sensor inside a digital camera is one of the key determinants of image quality. A large sensor will tend to have larger individual pixels that provide better low-light sensitivity, wider dynamic range, and richer color-depth than smaller pixel-units in a sensor of the same technological generation. Moreover, a large sensor camera will give the photographer more control over depth-of-field in the image and, thus, the ability to better isolate a subject from the background. On the downside, larger sensors are more costly to manufacture and tend to lead to bigger and heavier cameras and lenses.

Of the two cameras under consideration, the Panasonic S1R features a full frame sensor and the Fujifilm X-E3 an APS-C sensor. The sensor area in the X-E3 is 57 percent smaller. As a result of these sensor size differences, the cameras have a format factor of, respectively, 1.0 and 1.5. Both cameras have a native aspect ratio (sensor width to sensor height) of 3:2.

With 46.7MP, the S1R offers a higher resolution than the X-E3 (24MP), but the S1R nevertheless has larger individual pixels (pixel pitch of 4.30μm versus 3.92μm for the X-E3) due to its larger sensor. Moreover, the S1R is a somewhat more recent model (by 1 year and 4 months) than the X-E3, and its sensor might have benefitted from technological advances during this time that further enhance the light gathering capacity of its pixels. Coming back to sensor resolution, it should be mentioned that neither of the two cameras has an anti-alias filter installed, so they are able to capture all the detail the sensor resolves.

The resolution advantage of the Panasonic S1R implies greater flexibility for cropping images or the possibility to print larger pictures. The maximum print size of the S1R for good quality output (200 dots per inch) amounts to 41.8 x 27.9 inch or 106.3 x 70.9 cm, for very good quality (250 dpi) 33.5 x 22.3 inch or 85 x 56.7 cm, and for excellent quality (300 dpi) 27.9 x 18.6 inch or 70.8 x 47.3 cm. The corresponding values for the Fujifilm X-E3 are 30 x 20 inch or 76.2 x 50.8 cm for good quality, 24 x 16 inch or 61 x 40.6 cm for very good quality, and 20 x 13.3 inch or 50.8 x 33.9 cm for excellent quality prints.

The X-E3 has on-sensor phase detect pixels, which results in fast and reliable autofocus acquisition even during live view operation.

Unlike the X-E3, the S1R has the capacity to capture high quality composite images (187MP) by combining multiple shots after shifting its sensor by miniscule distances. This multi-shot, pixel-shift mode is most suitable for photography of stationary objects (landscapes, studio scenes).

The Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R has a native sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 25600, which can be extended to ISO 50-51200. The corresponding ISO settings for the Fujifilm X-E3 are ISO 200 to ISO 12800, with the possibility to increase the ISO range to 100-51200.

For many cameras, data on sensor performance has been reported by DXO Mark. This service assesses and scores the color depth ("DXO Portrait"), dynamic range ("DXO Landscape"), and low-light sensitivity ("DXO Sports") of camera sensors, and also publishes an overall camera score. The following table provides an overview of the physical sensor characteristics, as well as the sensor quality measurements for a selection of comparators.

Many modern cameras are not only capable of taking still images, but can also record movies. Both cameras under consideration have a sensor with sufficiently fast read-out times for moving pictures, but the S1R provides a higher frame rate than the X-E3. It can shoot video footage at 4K/60p, while the Fujifilm is limited to 4K/30p.

Feature comparison

Apart from body and sensor, cameras can and do differ across a range of features. The two cameras under consideration are similar with respect to both having an electronic viewfinder. However, the one in the S1R offers a substantially higher resolution than the one in the X-E3 (5760k vs 2360k dots). The table below summarizes some of the other core capabilities of the Panasonic S1R and Fujifilm X-E3 in connection with corresponding information for a sample of similar cameras.

One feature that is present on the S1R, but is missing on the X-E3 is a top-level LCD. While being, of course, smaller than the rear screen, the control panel conveys some of the essential shooting information and can be convenient for quick and easy settings verification.

The reported shutter speed information refers to the use of the mechanical shutter. Yet, some cameras only have an electronic shutter, while others have an electronic shutter in addition to a mechanical one. In fact, both cameras under consideration feature an electronic shutter, which makes completely silent shooting possible. However, this mode is less suitable for photographing moving objects (risk of rolling shutter) or shooting under artificial light sources (risk of flickering).

The Fujifilm X-E3 has an intervalometer built-in. This enables the photographer to capture time lapse sequences, such as flower blooming, a sunset or moon rise, without purchasing an external camera trigger and related software.

The S1R writes its imaging data to SDHC or XQD cards, while the X-E3 uses SDXC cards. The S1R features dual card slots, which can be very useful in case a memory card fails. In contrast, the X-E3 only has one slot. The S1R supports UHS-II cards (on both slots), while the X-E3 can use UHS-I cards.

Connectivity comparison

For some imaging applications, the extent to which a camera can communicate with its environment can be an important aspect in the camera decision process. The table below provides an overview of the connectivity of the Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R and Fujifilm X-E3 and, in particular, the interfaces the cameras (and selected comparators) provide for accessory control and data transfer.

It is notable that the S1R has a headphone jack, which is not present on the X-E3 This port makes it possible to attach external headphones and monitor the quality of sound during the recording process.

Studio photographers will appreciate that the Panasonic S1R (unlike the X-E3) features a PC Sync socket, so that professional strobe lights can be controlled by the camera.

Both the S1R and the X-E3 are recent models that are part of the current product line-up. The X-E3 replaced the earlier Fujifilm X-E2S, while the S1R does not have a direct predecessor. Further information on the two cameras (e.g. user guides, manuals), as well as related accessories, can be found on the official Panasonic and Fujifilm websites.

Review summary

So what conclusions can be drawn? Is the Panasonic S1R better than the Fujifilm X-E3 or vice versa? The listing below highlights the relative strengths of the two models.

Advantages of the Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R:

• More detail: Offers more megapixels (46.7 vs 24MP) with a 40% higher linear resolution.
• High quality composites: Can combine several shots after pixel-shifting its sensor.
• Better image quality: Features a larger and more technologically advanced imaging sensor.
• Richer colors: The sensor size advantage translates into images with better, more accurate colors.
• More dynamic range: Larger sensor captures a wider spectrum of light and dark details.
• Better low-light sensitivity: Larger sensor produces good images even in poorly lit environments.
• Better video: Provides higher movie framerates (4K/60p versus 4K/30p).
• Better sound control: Has a headphone port that enables audio monitoring while recording.
• More detailed viewfinder: Has higher resolution electronic viewfinder (5760k vs 2360k dots).
• Larger viewfinder image: Features a viewfinder with a higher magnification (0.78x vs 0.41x).
• Easier setting verification: Features an LCD display on top to control shooting parameters.
• Larger screen: Has a bigger rear LCD (3.2" vs 3.0") for image review and settings control.
• More detailed LCD: Has a higher resolution rear screen (2100k vs 1040k dots).
• More flexible LCD: Has a full-flex screen for odd-angle shots in portrait or landscape orientation.
• Faster shutter: Has higher mechanical shutter speed (1/8000s vs 1/4000s) to freeze action.
• Faster burst: Shoots at higher frequency (9 vs 8 flaps/sec) to capture the decisive moment.
• Better sealing: Is weather sealed to enable shooting in dusty or wet environments.
• Sharper images: Has hand-shake reducing image stabilization built-in.
• Faster data transfer: Supports a more advanced USB protocol (3.1 vs 2.0).
• More solid recording: Has a full-sized HDMI port for a sturdy connection to an external recorder.
• Better studio light control: Has a PC Sync socket to connect to professional strobe lights.
• Greater peace of mind: Features a second card slot as a backup in case of memory card failure.
• Faster buffer clearing: Supports a more advanced SD data transfer standard (UHS-II vs UHS-I).
• More modern: Is somewhat more recent (announced 1 year and 4 months after the X-E3).

Reasons to prefer the Fujifilm X-E3:

• Better live-view autofocus: Features on-sensor phase-detection for more confident autofocus.
• Easier time-lapse photography: Has an intervalometer built-in for low frequency shooting.
• More compact: Is smaller (121x74mm vs 149x110mm) and will fit more readily into a bag.
• Less heavy: Has a lower weight (by 679g or 67 percent) and is thus easier to take along.
• More affordable: Was introduced into a lower priced category (76 percent cheaper at launch).
• More heavily discounted: Has been on the market for longer (launched in September 2017).

If the number of relative strengths (bullet points above) is taken as a guide, the S1R is the clear winner of the match-up (24 : 6 points). However, the relevance of individual strengths will vary across photographers, so that you might want to apply your own weighing scheme to the summary points when reflecting and deciding on a new camera. A professional wedding photographer will view the differences between cameras in a way that diverges from the perspective of a travel photog, and a person interested in cityscapes has distinct needs from a macro shooter. Hence, the decision which camera is best and worth buying is often a very personal one.

How about other alternatives? Do the specifications of the Panasonic S1R and the Fujifilm X-E3 place the cameras among the top in their class? Find out in the latest Best Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera listing whether the two cameras rank among the cream of the crop.

In any case, while the comparison of technical specifications can provide a useful overview of the capabilities of different cameras, it remains incomplete and does no justice, for example, to the way the S1R or the X-E3 perform in practice. User reviews that are available, for instance, at amazon can sometimes shed light on these issues, but such feedback is all too often partial, inconsistent, and inaccurate.

Expert reviews

This is why hands-on reviews by experts are important. The following table reports the overall ratings of the cameras as published by some of the major camera review sites (cameralabs, dpreview, ephotozine, imaging-resource, and photographyblog). As can be seen, the professional reviewers agree in many cases on the quality of different cameras, but sometimes their assessments diverge, reinforcing the earlier point that a camera decision is often a very personal choice.

Review Scores

	Camera Model						Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Used Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Panasonic S1R»	-	89/100	4.5/5	-	4.5/5	Feb 2019	3,699			Panasonic S1R
	Fujifilm X-E3«	+	84/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Sep 2017	899			Fujifilm X-E3
	Canon 5DS« »	+	83/100	4.5/5	5/5	4.5/5	Feb 2015	3,699			Canon 5DS
	Fujifilm X-T30« »	+ +	84/100	4.5/5	-	4.5/5	Feb 2019	899			Fujifilm X-T30
	Fujifilm X-T20« »	+ +	82/100	5/5	-	4.5/5	Jan 2017	899			Fujifilm X-T20
	Fujifilm X-A3« »	-	74/100	4.5/5	-	4/5	Aug 2016	399	-		Fujifilm X-A3
	Fujifilm X-E2S« »	-	77/100	4.5/5	-	4.5/5	Jan 2016	699	-		Fujifilm X-E2S
	Fujifilm X-E2« »	-	80/100	4.5/5	-	5/5	Oct 2013	999	-		Fujifilm X-E2
	Nikon Z7« »	+	89/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	5/5	Aug 2018	3,399			Nikon Z7
	Nikon D850« »	+ +	89/100	4.5/5	5/5	5/5	Jul 2017	3,299			Nikon D850
	Panasonic S1« »	+ +	88/100	4.5/5	-	4/5	Feb 2019	2,499			Panasonic S1
	Panasonic S1H« »	-	-	-	-	-	May 2019	3,999			Panasonic S1H
	Pentax K-1 II« »	-	79/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Feb 2018	1,999			Pentax K-1 II
	Sony A7 III« »	+ +	89/100	5/5	5/5	5/5	Feb 2018	1,999			Sony A7 III
	Sony A7R III« »	+ +	90/100	4.5/5	5/5	5/5	Oct 2017	3,199	-		Sony A7R III
	Sony A99 II« »	-	85/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Sep 2016	3,199			Sony A99 II
	Sony A850« »	-	75/100	-	4/5	4.5/5	Aug 2009	1,999	-		Sony A850
Notes: (+ +) highly recommended; (+) recommended; (o) reviewed; (-) not available.

The above review scores should be interpreted with care, though. The ratings are only valid when referring to cameras in the same category and of the same age. A score, therefore, has to be seen in close connection to the price and market introduction time of the camera, and comparisons of ratings among very different cameras or across long time periods have little meaning. Also, kindly note that some of the listed sites have over time developped their review approaches and their reporting style.

Other camera comparisons

Did this review help to inform your camera decision process? If you would like to see a different side-by-side camera review, just use the search menu below. There is also a set of direct links to comparison reviews that other users of the CAM-parator app explored.

Specifications: Panasonic S1R vs Fujifilm X-E3

Below is a side-by-side comparison of the specs of the two cameras to facilitate a quick review of their differences and common features.

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