Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic 3D1

Its time to look much closer at the Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic 3D1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-P3 (12MP) and the 3D1 (12MP) is fairly comparable but the E-P3 (Four Thirds) and 3D1 (1/2.3") have different sensor sizing.

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The E-P3 was revealed 2 months earlier than the 3D1 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-P3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight to a detailed comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the E-P3 scores vs the 3D1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-P3 Gallery and Panasonic 3D1 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera frequently, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-P3 has external dimensions of 122mm x 69mm x 34mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.3") and a weight of 369 grams (0.81 lbs) whilst 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).

Examine the Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic 3D1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have at the time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the E-P3 against the 3D1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-P3 and 3D1 is 86 and 93 respectively.

Typically, it can be hard to picture the contrast in sensor measurements just by going through technical specs. The graphic underneath might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the E-P3 and 3D1.

As you have seen, the two cameras have the same megapixels but different sensor measurements. The E-P3 includes the larger sensor which will make getting shallow DOF easier.