Olympus SZ-15 vs Sony NEX-F3

In this write-up, we are analyzing the Olympus SZ-15 versus Sony NEX-F3, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the SZ-15 (16MP) and the NEX-F3 (16MP) is very well matched but the SZ-15 (1/2.3") and NEX-F3 (APS-C) use different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-15 was manufactured 11 months after the NEX-F3 so they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-15 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-F3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a more detailed comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the SZ-15 scores versus the NEX-F3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-15 & Sony Alpha NEX-F3. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery & Sony NEX-F3 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to travel with your camera, you should factor in its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-15 offers exterior measurements of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") along with a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Sony NEX-F3 has specifications of 117mm x 67mm x 42mm (4.6" x 2.6" x 1.7") with a weight of 314 grams (0.69 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-15 versus Sony NEX-F3 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the SZ-15 compared to the NEX-F3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-15 and NEX-F3 is 88 and 86 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to picture the difference between sensor dimensions only by looking at a spec sheet. The pic below will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-15 and NEX-F3.

As you can see, each of the cameras offer the same exact megapixels but different sensor dimensions. The SZ-15 comes with the tinier sensor which should make achieving bokeh more difficult. The more recent SZ-15 provides an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.