Olympus 1s vs Panasonic FP3

Below, we will be analyzing the Olympus 1s versus Panasonic FP3, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Ultracompact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the 1s (12MP) and the FP3 (14MP) is pretty well matched but the 1s (1/1.7") and FP3 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The 1s was unveiled 5 years after the FP3 which is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus 1s being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief overview of how the 1s matches up vs the FP3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus 1s and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus 1s Gallery and Panasonic FP3 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to travel with your camera regularly, you'll need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus 1s provides physical dimensions of 116mm x 87mm x 57mm (4.6" x 3.4" x 2.2") with a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Panasonic FP3 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") and a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

Examine the Olympus 1s versus Panasonic FP3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Following is the front view scale comparison of the 1s compared to the FP3.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 1s and FP3 is 79 and 95 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions simply by looking at a spec sheet. The image below may give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the 1s and FP3.

Clearly, both of those cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The 1s having a bigger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic FP3 will give you extra detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The fresher 1s will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.