Olympus E-PL6 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3: A Practical Comparison for the Photography Enthusiast

Choosing your next camera can feel like navigating a jungle, especially when models from different categories and eras come into the mix. Today, I’m sifting through two distinctly different cameras: the Olympus PEN E-PL6, a 2014 entry-level mirrorless, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3, a compact from 2010. Although they serve different segments, comparing these two offers valuable lessons on sensor tech, controls, and real-world handling that transcend their discrete categories.

Having tested thousands of cameras over the years, I’ll bring my experience to bear - focusing on how these cameras perform in actual shooting scenarios across genres, their technical merits, and whether they still hold up today in a market flooded with new models.

Let’s begin by sizing up their design and ergonomics...

Size and Handling: Which Fits Your Hands and Style?

Size and ergonomics matter a lot when you’re out shooting for hours. The Olympus E-PL6 adopts a rangefinder-style mirrorless body offering a notably different feel than the compact Panasonic FH3. Take a look:

Right off, you’ll notice the Olympus E-PL6 is larger and heavier at 325g versus Panasonic’s 165g, with body dimensions reflecting a thicker, sturdier grip. This bulk translates into more physical controls and a more confident hold, especially useful for sustained shooting or when pairing with larger lenses.

The FH3’s pocket-friendly footprint makes it wonderfully portable but trades off physical control for compactness. It’s perfect if uncompromising portability is your biggest priority - travel or everyday carry comes to mind here.

Based on my hands-on experience:

• Olympus E-PL6: Feels balanced and comfortable with bigger hands, making manual exposure adjustments or focusing faster and less fatiguing.
• Panasonic FH3: Great for casual snaps or second camera roles but can feel fiddly in manual modes (which, notably, it lacks).

If you prefer full manual control and a stronger grip, Olympus gets the upper hand. For minimalism and pocket-size convenience, Panasonic.

Layout and Key Controls: Navigating Your Camera With Ease

User interface is where a camera’s design shines beyond specs. Let’s peek from the top:

The E-PL6 sports traditional PASM modes, dedicated dials for exposure compensation, and an accessible pop-up flash shoe for external flashes - a boon for creative lighting setups. Its tilting touchscreen (more on that shortly) offers intuitive navigation.

In contrast, the FH3 keeps it simple: no PASM, fixed lens, no external flash support, and minimal buttons. It’s optimized for point-and-shoot convenience, not manual control.

With Olympus, you get:

• Shutter priority, aperture priority, manual exposure modes
• Exposure compensation dial
• Customizable function buttons

Panasonic offers simplicity, but that simplicity limits creative control.

From years of testing, I find beginners craving control appreciate E-PL6’s tactile dials, while casual users benefit from FH3’s one-button operation. The trade-off is clear.

Sensor Technology and Imaging Power: The Heart of the Camera

Now, let's dissect what really drives image quality: the sensor.

Olympus E-PL6: Utilizes a Four Thirds CMOS sensor sized 17.3x13 mm (about 224.9 mm²) with a 16MP resolution (4608x3456 pixels). TruePic VI processor boosts noise reduction and color rendering. Maximum ISO reaches 25,600.

Panasonic FH3: Small 1/2.3" CCD sensor (6.08x4.56 mm, ~27.7 mm²) with 14MP resolution (4320x3240), max ISO of 6400. CCD sensors, while historically praised for color, generally lag in noise performance compared to CMOS.

This large difference in sensor size is decisive:

• Four Thirds sensor in Olympus gives better light-gathering, dynamic range, and low-light performance.
• Panasonic’s small sensor limits wide aperture and ISO capabilities, affecting noise and detail retention.

Besides sensor size, Olympus’ CMOS and modern image processor allow RAW shooting and better noise control - key for editing flexibility.

Practically, I’ve tested the E-PL6 delivering superior skin tone rendition, finer detail in shadows/highlights, and cleaner images at ISO 1600+. The FH3 struggles beyond ISO 400, with noticeable grain and color smearing.

For portraits, landscapes, and low light, Olympus is the clear winner thanks to its sensor and processing. Panasonic suits daylight snaps and simple snapshots.

Display and Interface: Seeing What Matters

Screen size and quality shape your shooting experience, especially when an EVF is absent.

The E-PL6 shines with a 3-inch tilting touchscreen (460k dots), giving you flexibility for high/low angle shots and touch autofocus - nice for creative framing and quick operation. Though not the highest resolution by today’s standard, it felt sharp and responsive.

The FH3 features a 2.7-inch fixed, non-touch LCD with just 230k dots - adequate but noticeably less crisp, and no tilting means less flexibility.

For me, tilting touchscreens like in the E-PL6 are invaluable: they increase compositional creativity and reduce fatigue by letting you hold the camera comfortably at odd angles.

If portability is your only aim and you’re happy with a basic screen, FH3 works but expect compromises in live view precision.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Targeting

AF can make or break your shooting, particularly in sports, wildlife, or street photography.

Olympus E-PL6 relies on a 35-point contrast-detection AF system with face detection and continuous AF tracking. No phase-detection points, but performance is competent for its class and era.

Panasonic FH3 uses a 9-point contrast-detection system without face detection or continuous tracking.

My field tests confirm:

• E-PL6 locks focus quicker and more reliably in challenging light, including face-aware AF for portraits.
• It maintains decent tracking in continuous AF, though not as robust as higher-end models.
• FH3, given its simpler AF, often hunts a moment before locking - acceptable for casual, static subjects but limited for action.

If wildlife or sports shooting is a priority, neither excels by today’s standards, yet E-PL6’s AF is the only remotely capable option here.

Burst Shooting and Buffer: Catching the Moment

For sports or wildlife enthusiasts, frames per second (fps) and buffer depth matter.

• Olympus E-PL6 offers up to 8fps continuous shooting, pretty snappy for its sensor and processor.
• Panasonic FH3 shoots at 6fps, decent for a compact but with limited buffer.

In my tests, Olympus sustains continuous shooting longer before slowing, allowing multiple catches during action bursts.

Image Stabilization: Steady Shots Without a Tripod

Both cameras include stabilization but differ fundamentally.

• E-PL6 features sensor-shift image stabilization (in-body), effective across lenses.
• FH3 has optical image stabilization in the fixed lens.

Sensor-based stabilization in Olympus is preferable, providing stabilization benefits even when using manual or legacy lenses, essential for handheld low-light or macro shots.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: How Far Can You Go?

Any serious enthusiast needs flexibility in lenses.

Olympus E-PL6 uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, compatible with 107 native lenses and a huge range of third-party options. It supports everything from ultra-wide angles through super-telephotos, macro lenses, and all manner of primes.

Panasonic FH3’s lens is fixed 28-140mm (35mm equivalent), fast at f/2.8-6.9 but non-interchangeable. This limits versatility severely: you’re stuck with it and its image quality constraints.

In my studio and field tests, having lens options vastly expands creative possibilities. I’d never recommend a fixed Zoom unless convenience is your only priority.

Video Capabilities: Moving Images and Audio

For videographers - and many still photographers dabble - the differences are sharp.

• Olympus E-PL6 records 1080p Full HD at 30fps in MPEG-4 and Motion JPEG, decent quality for the era with continuous autofocus during filming. No mic input, no headphone jack.
• Panasonic FH3 maxes out at 720p HD. No control over aperture or shutter speed in video modes, limited codec.

Olympus’ Full HD video with better sensor size results in sharper, cleaner footage. Despite lacking pro audio inputs, it’s more than satisfactory for casual videography.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Details That Matter

Battery endurance and storage support influence shooting duration and convenience.

• E-PL6 uses the BLS-5 lithium-ion battery, rated for approximately 360 shots per charge - typical for mirrorless.
• FH3 lacks official battery rating info but as a compact, generally runs shorter.

Both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, standard today. Olympus supports one card slot; Panasonic similarly.

For travel or event days, the E-PL6’s replaceable battery and decent capacity edge ahead.

Durability and Weather Sealing: Will It Withstand the Elements?

Neither camera offers formal weather sealing or rugged specs.

Both are best considered everyday use cameras protected from heavy rain or dust.

Real-World Genre Performance: Which Camera Excels Where?

Time to map out practical use across photography disciplines - based on my hands-on tests.

Portrait Photography

• Olympus E-PL6 performs admirably with accurate skin tones, effective face/eye detection AF, and pleasing bokeh thanks to Micro Four Thirds lenses with wide apertures. The sensor handles subtle tonal gradations better.
• Panasonic FH3 struggles with shallow depth-of-field separation and lacks face detection.

Clear portrait win to Olympus.

Landscape Photography

• The E-PL6’s higher resolution, RAW support, and better dynamic range capture detail and shadow recovery well, handy in challenging scenic lighting.
• Its lens options include excellent wide-angles for sweeping vistas.
• FH3’s small sensor cannot match detail and dynamic range, making landscapes look flat.

Olympus again dominates here.

Wildlife Photography

• E-PL6’s faster burst, continuous AF, and lens options give it modest potential for entry-level wildlife.
• FH3’s AF and zoom range don’t make it suitable beyond casual snapshots.

If wildlife is your passion, Olympus is the better bet.

Sports Photography

• While not a high-end sports camera, E-PL6’s 8fps burst and continuous AF make it usable for slow to medium-paced action in good light.
• FH3’s limitations render it ineffective for most sports.

Street Photography

• FH3’s compactness and discreet profile are advantages for unobtrusive shooting.
• The E-PL6 is larger but offers faster autofocus and creative controls.
• Both struggle a bit in very low light, but E-PL6’s sensor performs better.

If you prioritize invisibility, Panasonic edges out; else Olympus provides better image quality.

Macro Photography

• Olympus supports dedicated macro lenses and sensor stabilization, enabling sharper close-ups.
• Panasonic’s macro mode focuses as close as 5cm but lacks stabilization or aperture control.

Macro specialist? Choose Olympus.

Night and Astro Photography

• Olympus’ larger sensor and high ISO capabilities enable longer exposures and cleaner results.
• FH3’s max ISO and noise performance limit nightscape usability.

Video Work

• Olympus’ Full HD at 30fps and continuous autofocus are advantages.
• Panasonic limited to 720p without manual exposure options.

Clear video lead to Olympus.

Travel Photography

• FH3’s size and weight are travel-perfect but image quality compromises are notable.
• Olympus is slightly bulkier but offers versatility with lenses and better image quality, important on trips.

Professional Use and Workflow

• Olympus supports RAW, tethering, and integrates well into professional workflows.
• Panasonic’s JPEG-only, no manual modes, and lack of RAW limit professional use.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Here is a quick glance:

Feature	Olympus E-PL6	Panasonic FH3
Sensor Size	Large Four Thirds 16MP CMOS	Small 1/2.3" 14MP CCD
Image Quality	Superior detail, low noise, dynamic range	Limited sharpness and dynamic range
Autofocus	35-point contrast AF + face detection	9-point contrast, no face detection
Burst Rate	8 fps	6 fps
Video	Full HD 1080p, 30fps	HD 720p, 30fps
Lens Flexibility	Extensive interchangeable lens support	Fixed 28-140mm lens
Body Size & Weight	Larger & heavier	Compact and lightweight
Battery Life	Moderate (360 shots)	Not specified, likely less
Control & Modes	PASM manual modes, exposure comp.	Point-and-shoot, limited manual
Image Stabilization	Sensor-shift (in-body)	Optical lens-based
Price (at launch)	$299	$160

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Choosing is really about prioritizing what matters to you:

• If you want creative control, better image quality, and expandability - Olympus E-PL6 is the more versatile and future-proof option. Its sensor, manual modes, stabilization, and lens ecosystem deliver value for beginners stepping into interchangeable lens photography, hobbyists, and even semi-pro shooters on a budget.

• If you crave absolute portability with simplicity for casual snapshotting and budget is tight, the Panasonic FH3 does the job with modest image quality and a small footprint. It’s ideal as a pocket camera for travel days when carrying a larger camera isn’t an option or for novices prioritizing ease over flexibility.

Final Thoughts – Some Context From My Testing Desk

On paper and in real shooting, the Olympus PEN E-PL6 stands out across nearly every category that matters to serious users: sensor performance, image quality, flexibility, and creative control. Its Micro Four Thirds system means the body is just the start; you can grow your kit with lenses, flashes, and accessories.

The FH3, by contrast, remains a competent compact, perfect for those who want an easy point-and-shoot experience without fuss or bulk but lacks the technical muscle for advanced photography.

Neither camera is weather-sealed or cutting-edge by 2024 standards, but both have their charm across different use cases and budgets.

If you are enthusiastic about portraits, landscapes, or want to experiment with video, macro, or low light, Olympus gets my recommendation. For simple snapshots, pocket convenience, and budget constraints, Panasonic makes sense.

Sample image comparison: notice Olympus E-PL6’s richer colors and sharper details versus Panasonic FH3’s softer results.

A breakdown showing Olympus outperforms in portrait, landscape, wildlife, and video categories; Panasonic holds only street photography convenience.

Balanced with this information, I hope your camera hunt feels clearer. You’ll find no perfect camera, only the one that matches your needs best.

If you want to dig deeper, consider renting the Olympus E-PL6 briefly to feel its controls and image quality firsthand. Touchscreens, AF speed, and lens options make a big difference in daily shooting flow.

Dear camera manufacturers, please keep making cameras that respect portability without leaving behind the advantages of sensor size and manual control!

Happy shooting!

Note: If you want my video review with side-by-side image quality tests and handling insights on these cameras, check my channel for “Olympus E-PL6 vs Panasonic FH3 real-world review” - it complements this detailed write-up nicely.