Olympus SZ-10 vs Panasonic ZR3

Below, we will be looking at the Olympus SZ-10 versus Panasonic ZR3, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-10 (14MP) and the ZR3 (14MP) is pretty comparable and they feature the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-10 was announced 13 months after the ZR3 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a complete comparison, below is a quick view of how the SZ-10 matches up against the ZR3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-10 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-10 Gallery & Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to travel with your camera, you will want to factor its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-10 enjoys external dimensions of 106mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 215 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZR3 has specifications of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-10 versus Panasonic ZR3 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you use at that time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the SZ-10 compared to the ZR3.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-10 and ZR3 is 90 and 94 respectively.

More often than not, it is very tough to envision the contrast in sensor dimensions only by seeing specifications. The image below will give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-10 and ZR3.

Plainly, both of these cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the identical MP and you can expect comparable quality of photographs but you will want to factor the age of the cameras into account. The fresher SZ-10 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.