Leica V-Lux 3 vs Olympus SH-2

Its time to examine more in depth at the Leica V-Lux 3 and Olympus SH-2, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Leica and Olympus. There exists a sizeable gap among the image resolutions of the V-Lux 3 (12MP) and SH-2 (16MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The V-Lux 3 was brought out 4 years earlier than the SH-2 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Leica V-Lux 3 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Olympus SH-2 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick view of how the V-Lux 3 scores vs the SH-2 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica V-Lux 3 and Olympus Stylus SH-2. The entire galleries are viewable at Leica V-Lux 3 Gallery and Olympus SH-2 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera often, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Leica V-Lux 3 has external dimensions of 124mm x 81mm x 95mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.7") along with a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) whilst the Olympus SH-2 has dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") along with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs).

Contrast the Leica V-Lux 3 and Olympus SH-2 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached during that time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the V-Lux 3 against the SH-2.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the V-Lux 3 and SH-2 is 67 and 88 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizing merely by looking through a spec sheet. The photograph here will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the V-Lux 3 and SH-2.

Clearly, both of those cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Olympus SH-2 to provide you with extra detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos far more aggressively. The older V-Lux 3 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.