Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic FP3

Below, we are analyzing the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS versus Panasonic FP3, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and the FP3 (14MP) is very comparable and they possess the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was unveiled 2 years after the FP3 which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before getting straight into a complete comparison, below is a quick view of how the SZ-31MR iHS matches up vs the FP3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery and Panasonic FP3 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera often, you need to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS has got external measurements 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 Panasonic FP3 has specifications 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-31MR iHS versus Panasonic FP3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have attached at the time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS vs the FP3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-31MR iHS and FP3 is 89 and 95 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes simply by going through a spec sheet. The picture below might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-31MR iHS and FP3.

As you can see, both cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to provide extra detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images much more aggressively. The more modern SZ-31MR iHS will have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.