Olympus 1 vs Panasonic SZ3

Below, we are analyzing the Olympus 1 and Panasonic SZ3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the 1 (12MP) and SZ3 (16MP) and the 1 (1/1.7") and SZ3 (1/2.3") use different sensor measurements.

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The 1 was launched 11 months later than the SZ3 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus 1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a quick summation of how the 1 grades vs the SZ3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus 1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The complete galleries are available at Olympus 1 Gallery and Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera often, you'll have to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus 1 has external dimensions of 116mm x 87mm x 57mm (4.6" x 3.4" x 2.2") having a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ3 has measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Compare the Olympus 1 and Panasonic SZ3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are employing at that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the 1 vs the SZ3.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the 1 and SZ3 is 79 and 96 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to visualize the gap in sensor sizing merely by viewing specifications. The visual underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 and SZ3.

Plainly, both of those cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The 1 featuring a larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic SZ3 will result in more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop images somewhat more aggressively. The more recent 1 should have a benefit in sensor tech.