Olympus 5010 vs Panasonic 3D1

Below, we will be analyzing the Olympus 5010 versus Panasonic 3D1, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the 5010 (14MP) and the 3D1 (12MP) is relatively similar and they come with the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The 5010 was announced 22 months prior to the 3D1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both cameras come with different body type with the Olympus 5010 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving in to a thorough comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the 5010 grades against the 3D1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus 5010 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus 5010 Gallery and Panasonic 3D1 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera regularly, you need to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus 5010 provides physical measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 20mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Panasonic 3D1 has sizing of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs).

Check out the Olympus 5010 versus Panasonic 3D1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the 5010 compared to the 3D1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the 5010 and 3D1 is 96 and 93 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing only by going over a spec sheet. The photograph here should give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the 5010 and 3D1.

As you can see, both of these cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same resolution. You should count on the Olympus 5010 to deliver extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The older 5010 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.