Olympus E-P3 vs Panasonic SZ5

Following is a extended overview of the Olympus E-P3 and Panasonic SZ5, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P3 (12MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is pretty comparable but the E-P3 (Four Thirds) and SZ5 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-P3 was launched 11 months prior to the SZ5 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-P3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera.

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a simple summation of how the E-P3 matches up against the SZ5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-P3 Gallery and Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera, you will need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P3 has got outside measurements of 122mm x 69mm x 34mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.3") with a weight of 369 grams (0.81 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ5 has measurements of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-P3 and Panasonic SZ5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have attached at that moment. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the E-P3 and the SZ5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the E-P3 and SZ5 is 86 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it is very tough to visualise the gap in sensor sizes simply by seeing specifications. The image here may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P3 and SZ5.

To sum up, each of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-P3 featuring a bigger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic SZ5 will show greater detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged E-P3 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.