Leica V-Lux 3 vs Olympus SZ-12

Below, we are comparing the Leica V-Lux 3 and Olympus SZ-12, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Leica and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the V-Lux 3 (12MP) and the SZ-12 (14MP) is fairly close and they feature the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The V-Lux 3 was announced very close to the SZ-12 which means that they are of a similar age. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Leica V-Lux 3 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a in-depth comparison, below is a brief summation of how the V-Lux 3 matches up vs the SZ-12 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica V-Lux 3 & Olympus SZ-12. The whole galleries are provided at Leica V-Lux 3 Gallery & Olympus SZ-12 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and volume. The Leica V-Lux 3 features outer dimensions of 124mm x 81mm x 95mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.7") accompanied by a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) whilst the Olympus SZ-12 has sizing of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica V-Lux 3 and Olympus SZ-12 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the V-Lux 3 and the SZ-12.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the V-Lux 3 and SZ-12 is 67 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to visualize the gap in sensor sizes only by looking through specifications. The pic below will help give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the V-Lux 3 and SZ-12.

Plainly, both the cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements but different resolution. You can anticipate the Olympus SZ-12 to render greater detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos much more aggressively.