Olympus SZ-30MR vs Panasonic S3

Below, we are looking at the Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic S3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and the S3 (14MP) is fairly close and they come with the exact same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-30MR was unveiled 2 months later than the S3 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a complete comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the SZ-30MR grades against the S3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-30MR enjoys external 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 S3 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-30MR and Panasonic S3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the SZ-30MR versus the S3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-30MR and S3 is 89 and 96 respectively.

Generally, its difficult to picture the contrast in sensor sizing just by looking through a spec sheet. The visual below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-30MR and S3.

Clearly, both of the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but different resolution. You should anticipate the Olympus SZ-30MR to result in greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop photos somewhat more aggressively.