Olympus E-510 vs Panasonic ZS3

The following is a extended comparison of the Olympus E-510 versus Panasonic ZS3, former is a Advanced DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-510 (10MP) and the ZS3 (10MP) is relatively close but the E-510 (Four Thirds) and ZS3 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor size.

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The E-510 was released 17 months earlier than the ZS3 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-510 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple overview of how the E-510 grades vs the ZS3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-510 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-510 Gallery & Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to travel with your camera, you will have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-510 has got exterior measurements of 136mm x 92mm x 68mm (5.4" x 3.6" x 2.7") having a weight of 490 grams (1.08 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS3 has dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-510 versus Panasonic ZS3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the E-510 compared to the ZS3.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the E-510 and ZS3 is 69 and 91 respectively.

Often, it's tough to see the gap in sensor dimensions purely by researching specifications. The pic here should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the E-510 and ZS3.

To sum up, both cameras come with the identical MP albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The E-510 comes with the bigger sensor which will make getting bokeh less difficult. The more aged E-510 will be behind in sensor tech.