Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic FZ100

Here, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic FZ100, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-P3 (12MP) and the FZ100 (14MP) is pretty well matched but the E-P3 (Four Thirds) and FZ100 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-P3 was announced 14 months after the FZ100 which makes them a generation away from one another. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-P3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FZ100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the E-P3 grades against the FZ100 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-P3 Gallery and Panasonic FZ100 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-P3 provides exterior measurements of 122mm x 69mm x 34mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.3") having a weight of 369 grams (0.81 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ100 has dimensions of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") with a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic FZ100 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at that time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the E-P3 against the FZ100.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-P3 and FZ100 is 86 and 67 respectively.

Typically, its hard to visualise the gap between sensor sizes purely by checking specifications. The image below will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-P3 and FZ100.

To sum up, the 2 cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-P3 using its bigger sensor will make getting bokeh easier and the Panasonic FZ100 will resolve extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The fresher E-P3 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.