Olympus 7010 vs Panasonic ZR3

Its time to examine more in depth at the Olympus 7010 and Panasonic ZR3, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the 7010 (12MP) and the ZR3 (14MP) is pretty comparable and they possess the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The 7010 was launched 6 months prior to the ZR3 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a short highlight of how the 7010 grades versus the ZR3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus 7010 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The complete galleries are available at Olympus 7010 Gallery and Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus 7010 offers exterior measurements of 98mm x 56mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs) and the Panasonic ZR3 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

See the Olympus 7010 and Panasonic ZR3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at the time. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the 7010 and the ZR3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 7010 and ZR3 is 94 and 94 respectively.

Typically, its hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizing purely by seeing specifications. The photograph below will help give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the 7010 and ZR3.

To sum up, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Panasonic ZR3 to provide extra detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures a little more aggressively.