Olympus E-3 vs Panasonic LX3

Lets take a more detailed look at the Olympus E-3 vs Panasonic LX3, former is a Advanced DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-3 (10MP) and the LX3 (10MP) is pretty well matched but the E-3 (Four Thirds) and LX3 (1/1.63") provide totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-3 was launched 8 months before the LX3 and they are of a similar age. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-3 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Panasonic LX3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a full comparison, here is a short highlight of how the E-3 scores versus the LX3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus E-3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-3 Gallery & Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

For those who are looking to travel with your camera regularly, you will want to consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-3 comes with external measurements of 142mm x 116mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.6" x 3.0") with a weight of 890 grams (1.96 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LX3 has specifications of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-3 vs Panasonic LX3 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you select at that moment. Underneath is a front view overall size comparison of the E-3 vs the LX3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the E-3 and LX3 is 56 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to see the difference between sensor dimensions simply by looking at technical specs. The image underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the E-3 and LX3.

As you have seen, both the cameras provide the same MP albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The E-3 contains the bigger sensor which is going to make getting shallower DOF simpler. The more aged E-3 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.