Olympus SZ-30MR vs Sony NEX-3

Here, we are contrasting the Olympus SZ-30MR versus Sony NEX-3, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the SZ-30MR (16MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is very close but the SZ-30MR (1/2.3") and NEX-3 (APS-C) posses different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-30MR was unveiled 9 months later than the NEX-3 so they are both of a similar age. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SZ-30MR being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight to a complete comparison, here is a quick summary of how the SZ-30MR matches up versus the NEX-3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-30MR & Sony Alpha NEX-3. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery & Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera frequently, you have to think about its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-30MR offers outside dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3 has specifications of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SZ-30MR versus Sony NEX-3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select during that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the SZ-30MR against the NEX-3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-30MR and NEX-3 is 89 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing purely by researching specs. The photograph underneath should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-30MR and NEX-3.

All in all, both the cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SZ-30MR having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF trickier and the Olympus SZ-30MR will render greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The fresher SZ-30MR provides a benefit in sensor technology.