Leica V-Lux 3 vs Olympus 1s

Let's look much closer at the Leica V-Lux 3 versus Olympus 1s, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Leica and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the V-Lux 3 (12MP) and the 1s (12MP) is very close but the V-Lux 3 (1/2.3") and 1s (1/1.7") use totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The V-Lux 3 was launched 4 years before the 1s and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before getting in to a thorough comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the V-Lux 3 scores versus the 1s with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica V-Lux 3 and Olympus Stylus 1s. The complete galleries are provided at Leica V-Lux 3 Gallery and Olympus 1s Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Leica V-Lux 3 has outside measurements of 124mm x 81mm x 95mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.7") with a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) and the Olympus 1s has measurements of 116mm x 87mm x 57mm (4.6" x 3.4" x 2.2") accompanied by a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs).

Compare the Leica V-Lux 3 versus Olympus 1s in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using at that time. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the V-Lux 3 against the 1s.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the V-Lux 3 and 1s is 67 and 79 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizing just by viewing a spec sheet. The visual here may provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the V-Lux 3 and 1s.

Clearly, the two cameras enjoy the same exact MP but not the same sensor sizing. The V-Lux 3 features the smaller sensor which is going to make achieving shallower DOF tougher. The older V-Lux 3 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.