Olympus SZ-15 vs Panasonic FP3

Here is a in-depth assessment of the Olympus SZ-15 versus Panasonic FP3, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Ultracompact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-15 (16MP) and the FP3 (14MP) is very similar and they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-15 was introduced 3 years later than the FP3 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-15 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving in to a full comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the SZ-15 grades vs the FP3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-15 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery & Panasonic FP3 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera regularly, you will need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-15 features physical dimensions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") along with a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Panasonic FP3 has dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") having a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-15 versus Panasonic FP3 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are using during that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the SZ-15 vs the FP3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-15 and FP3 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Often, it can be difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizing just by going over a spec sheet. The graphic here may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-15 and FP3.

As you can see, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-15 to deliver more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop photos far more aggressively. The fresher SZ-15 is going to have an edge in sensor tech.