Olympus 550WP vs Panasonic ZR3

Here, we will be comparing the Olympus 550WP and Panasonic ZR3, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizable difference between the sensor resolutions of the 550WP (10MP) and ZR3 (14MP) but both cameras provide the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The 550WP was released 12 months before the ZR3 and they are both of a similar age. The two cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the 550WP matches up against the ZR3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus 550WP & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus 550WP Gallery & Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

If you are intending to lug around your camera often, you need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus 550WP has got external measurements of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZR3 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus 550WP and Panasonic ZR3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are working with at that moment. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the 550WP versus the ZR3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the 550WP and ZR3 is 94 and 94 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to see the gap between sensor measurements simply by going over a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the 550WP and ZR3.

As you can see, each of these cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Panasonic ZR3 to offer greater detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop photographs way more aggressively. The older 550WP is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.