Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic FP8

In this article, we are contrasting the Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic FP8, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Ultracompact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P3 (12MP) and the FP8 (12MP) is very close but the E-P3 (Four Thirds) and FP8 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-P3 was revealed 2 years later than the FP8 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-P3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FP8 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before getting straight into a in depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the E-P3 grades against the FP8 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-P3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP8. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-P3 Gallery and Panasonic FP8 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you will have to think about its weight and size. The Olympus E-P3 has physical 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 FP8 has specifications of 96mm x 60mm x 20mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 0.8") with a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic FP8 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use during that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the E-P3 compared to the FP8.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the E-P3 and FP8 is 86 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to see the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through a spec sheet. The graphic below may give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the E-P3 and FP8.

Clearly, both the cameras enjoy the same exact MP but not the same sensor sizing. The E-P3 uses the larger sensor which should make getting shallow depth of field less difficult. The more modern E-P3 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.