Olympus E-M5 vs Panasonic S3

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Olympus E-M5 versus Panasonic S3, one being a Advanced Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-M5 (16MP) and the S3 (14MP) is pretty similar but the E-M5 (Four Thirds) and S3 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-M5 was launched 17 months later than the S3 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-M5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a simple summation of how the E-M5 grades against the S3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus OM-D E-M5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-M5 Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

For those who are looking to lug around your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus E-M5 comes with exterior dimensions of 122mm x 89mm x 43mm (4.8" x 3.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 425 grams (0.94 lbs) while the Panasonic S3 has sizing of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-M5 versus Panasonic S3 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are employing during that time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the E-M5 compared to the S3.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-M5 and S3 is 81 and 96 respectively.

Typically, it can be tough to visualise the difference between sensor measurements simply by reviewing specifications. The photograph underneath may offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-M5 and S3.

To sum up, each of these cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The E-M5 because of its bigger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF less difficult and the Olympus E-M5 will deliver more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The fresher E-M5 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.