Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic TS3

Let's take a deeper look at the Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic TS3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Waterproof by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the TS3 (12MP) is pretty close and they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was launched 5 months later than the TS3 and they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a thorough comparison, below is a quick view of how the SZ-12 matches up vs the TS3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Panasonic TS3 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-12 has exterior dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic TS3 has dimensions of 103mm x 64mm x 27mm (4.1" x 2.5" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 197 grams (0.43 lbs).

See the Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic TS3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the SZ-12 against the TS3.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and TS3 is 89 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to see the difference in sensor measurements only by looking through specs. The visual below might provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-12 and TS3.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Olympus SZ-12 to provide you with extra detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots far more aggressively.