Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic G3

Following is a in depth analysis of the Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic G3, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and the G3 (16MP) is fairly similar but the SZ-16 iHS (1/2.3") and G3 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor measurements.

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The SZ-16 iHS was introduced 19 months after the G3 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SZ-16 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a full comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the SZ-16 iHS scores against the G3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery and Panasonic G3 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry around your camera, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS has got physical dimensions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") having 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") with a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic G3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have at that time. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the SZ-16 iHS compared to the G3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-16 iHS and G3 is 89 and 83 respectively.

Oftentimes, its difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizes just by reviewing specifications. The pic here should give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-16 iHS and G3.

Plainly, each of these cameras have got the exact same MP but not the same sensor sizes. The SZ-16 iHS provides the tinier sensor which will make getting shallower DOF trickier. The fresher SZ-16 iHS will have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.