Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS3

Let's look a little more in depth at the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS3, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There is a noticeable difference among the resolutions of the SZ-31MR iHS (16MP) and ZS3 (10MP) but both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SZ-31MR iHS was unveiled 2 years later than the ZS3 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a in depth comparison, here is a concise summation of how the SZ-31MR iHS matches up against the ZS3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-31MR iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-31MR iHS Gallery & Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera, you need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS offers physical measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") along with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS3 has sizing of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS vs Panasonic ZS3 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose at the time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the SZ-31MR iHS vs the ZS3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS3 is 89 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it can be tough to visualize the difference in sensor measurements merely by checking out specifications. The graphic below will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-31MR iHS and ZS3.

Plainly, each of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS to provide greater detail having an extra 6MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images more aggressively. The fresher SZ-31MR iHS provides an edge in sensor technology.