Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic 3D1

In this article, we will be analyzing the Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic 3D1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the 3D1 (12MP) is relatively close and they feature the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-12 was launched 3 months after the 3D1 and they are of a similar age. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a full comparison, below is a quick summary of how the SZ-12 matches up against the 3D1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-12 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Panasonic 3D1 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry around your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-12 has got outer dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic 3D1 has proportions of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic 3D1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have during that time. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the SZ-12 against the 3D1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ-12 and 3D1 is 89 and 93 respectively.

Sometimes, it is tough to see the gap in sensor sizes only by looking through specs. The pic underneath might give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-12 and 3D1.

All in all, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You can count on the Olympus SZ-12 to result in greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots far more aggressively.