Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic G3

On this page, we will be comparing the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic G3, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the G3 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the SZ-12 (1/2.3") and G3 (Four Thirds) posses totally different sensor dimensions.

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The SZ-12 was introduced 7 months later than the G3 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both the cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving right into a complete comparison, here is a short summation of how the SZ-12 scores against the G3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-12 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Panasonic G3 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to lug around your camera often, you are going to need to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-12 features outer measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") along with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic G3 has measurements of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") having a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic G3 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the SZ-12 against the G3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and G3 is 89 and 83 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to visualise the difference between sensor measurements only by checking specs. The visual here will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-12 and G3.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The SZ-12 using its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF more difficult and the Panasonic G3 will give you greater detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The more modern SZ-12 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor technology.