Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic LX3

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic LX3, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and the LX3 (10MP) is very similar but the SP-590 UZ (1/2.3") and LX3 (1/1.63") enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

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The SP-590 UZ was launched 3 months after the LX3 which means that they are of a similar age. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic LX3 being a Compact camera.

Before going in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the SP-590 UZ grades versus the LX3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SP-590 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery & Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera often, you'll have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus SP-590 UZ features outside measurements of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") and a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) and the Panasonic LX3 has measurements of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic LX3 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose at that time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the SP-590 UZ compared to the LX3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SP-590 UZ and LX3 is 72 and 91 respectively.

Normally, its tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizes simply by reading technical specs. The pic here will help give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SP-590 UZ and LX3.

As you have seen, both of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SP-590 UZ featuring a tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field harder and the Olympus SP-590 UZ will offer greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics a little more aggressively.