Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic FX78

Its time to look a bit more closely at the Olympus E-P3 versus Panasonic FX78, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P3 (12MP) and the FX78 (12MP) is pretty well matched but the E-P3 (Four Thirds) and FX78 (1/2.3") provide different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The E-P3 was brought out 7 months later than the FX78 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-P3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FX78 being a Compact camera.

Before going right into a in depth comparison, here is a concise summation of how the E-P3 scores versus the FX78 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-P3 Gallery & Panasonic FX78 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry your camera frequently, you will need to factor its weight and size. The Olympus E-P3 enjoys external dimensions of 122mm x 69mm x 34mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.3") with a weight of 369 grams (0.81 lbs) while the Panasonic FX78 has specifications of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-P3 versus Panasonic FX78 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the E-P3 against the FX78.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the E-P3 and FX78 is 86 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to imagine the gap between sensor sizing just by reading through specs. The photograph here will offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P3 and FX78.

All in all, each of these cameras provide the same resolution albeit different sensor sizing. The E-P3 contains the bigger sensor which will make getting shallower DOF less difficult. The fresher E-P3 should have an edge in sensor tech.