Olympus E-420 vs Panasonic 3D1

Here is a in depth overview of the Olympus E-420 versus Panasonic 3D1, one being a Entry-Level DSLR and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-420 (10MP) and the 3D1 (12MP) is fairly similar but the E-420 (Four Thirds) and 3D1 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-420 was introduced 4 years prior to the 3D1 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-420 being a Compact SLR camera and the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera.

Before we go into a thorough comparison, here is a short view of how the E-420 scores against the 3D1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus E-420 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-420 Gallery and Panasonic 3D1 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera often, you're going to have to think about its weight and size. The Olympus E-420 provides outer dimensions of 130mm x 91mm x 53mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.1") with a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs) and the Panasonic 3D1 has specifications of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-420 versus Panasonic 3D1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached during that time. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the E-420 and the 3D1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the E-420 and 3D1 is 77 and 93 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to see the contrast between sensor sizing just by reading specifications. The graphic underneath will give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-420 and 3D1.

Plainly, both the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-420 using its larger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field easier and the Panasonic 3D1 will offer you greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop images way more aggressively. The older E-420 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.