Olympus 550WP vs Panasonic FH3

Below is a comprehensive assessment of the Olympus 550WP and Panasonic FH3, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a big difference among the resolutions of the 550WP (10MP) and FH3 (14MP) but both cameras offer the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The 550WP was introduced 12 months prior to the FH3 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a complete comparison, here is a short overview of how the 550WP grades versus the FH3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus 550WP and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3. The whole galleries are available at Olympus 550WP Gallery and Panasonic FH3 Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera, you will have to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus 550WP has outer dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") having a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FH3 has sizing of 98mm x 55mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs).

See the Olympus 550WP and Panasonic FH3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilising at the time. Here is a front view over all size comparison of the 550WP compared to the FH3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the 550WP and FH3 is 94 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to picture the difference in sensor measurements merely by going through specs. The photograph below should give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the 550WP and FH3.

All in all, both cameras come with the identical sensor size but different resolution. You should expect to see the Panasonic FH3 to provide greater detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images a good deal more aggressively. The older 550WP will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.