Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic TS3

Here is a extended overview of the Olympus E-PL3 and Panasonic TS3, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Waterproof by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PL3 (12MP) and the TS3 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and TS3 (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-PL3 was manufactured 2 months later than the TS3 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-PL3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic TS3 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the E-PL3 grades against the TS3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery & Panasonic TS3 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL3 has outer dimensions 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 TS3 has proportions of 103mm x 64mm x 27mm (4.1" x 2.5" x 1.1") and a weight of 197 grams (0.43 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-PL3 and Panasonic TS3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the E-PL3 compared to the TS3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL3 and TS3 is 88 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it can be tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing purely by looking at technical specs. The photograph below will give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL3 and TS3.

As you have seen, both of these cameras have got the exact same resolution albeit not the same sensor sizing. The E-PL3 has got the bigger sensor which will make getting shallower DOF less difficult.