Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic SZ3

Here is a thorough analysis of the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic SZ3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the SZ3 (16MP) is relatively close and they feature the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was announced 12 months before the SZ3 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief view of how the SZ-12 matches up vs the SZ3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-12 provides outside dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ3 has specifications of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic SZ3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the SZ-12 versus the SZ3.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-12 and SZ3 is 89 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizing merely by researching a spec sheet. The photograph here will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-12 and SZ3.

As you can see, the two cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should count on the Panasonic SZ3 to render more detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs far more aggressively. The older SZ-12 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.