Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic 3D1

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic 3D1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and the 3D1 (12MP) is pretty well matched and they feature the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The SP-590 UZ was launched 3 years prior to the 3D1 which is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a thorough comparison, below is a quick summary of how the SP-590 UZ scores against the 3D1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SP-590 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery & Panasonic 3D1 Gallery.

For those who are going to travel with your camera regularly, you will have to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus SP-590 UZ provides external dimensions of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") having a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) whilst the Panasonic 3D1 has sizing of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") with a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic 3D1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the SP-590 UZ compared to the 3D1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SP-590 UZ and 3D1 is 72 and 93 respectively.

Quite often, it can be difficult to visualise the gap between sensor dimensions just by checking technical specs. The image underneath should offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SP-590 UZ and 3D1.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the same MP therefore you can expect similar quality of images though you may want to factor the launch date of the products into consideration. The more aged SP-590 UZ is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.