Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic ZS20

Following is a comprehensive analysis of the Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic ZS20, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PL3 (12MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is fairly comparable but the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and ZS20 (1/2.3") possess different sensor measurements.

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The E-PL3 was introduced 7 months prior to the ZS20 so they are of a similar age. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a more detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the E-PL3 scores versus the ZS20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery & Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera, you will want to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PL3 has got exterior dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS20 has measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic ZS20 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilising at that time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the E-PL3 vs the ZS20.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL3 and ZS20 is 88 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizes merely by seeing specs. The image here may provide you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL3 and ZS20.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-PL3 having a larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic ZS20 will provide greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged E-PL3 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.