Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic FS42

On this page, we will be matching up the Olympus E-PL3 versus Panasonic FS42, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Ultracompact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-PL3 (12MP) and the FS42 (10MP) is relatively similar but the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and FS42 (1/2.5") posses totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-PL3 was released 2 years later than the FS42 and that is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PL3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the E-PL3 matches up against the FS42 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery & Panasonic FS42 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you should take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PL3 enjoys exterior measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") and a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FS42 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-PL3 versus Panasonic FS42 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at that moment. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the E-PL3 vs the FS42.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL3 and FS42 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Quite often, it's difficult to envision the gap between sensor measurements just by reading technical specs. The photograph underneath may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL3 and FS42.

As you have seen, each of these cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The E-PL3 featuring a bigger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Olympus E-PL3 will deliver extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The fresher E-PL3 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.