Olympus SH-2 vs Panasonic ZS3

On this page, we will be matching up the Olympus SH-2 and Panasonic ZS3, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the SH-2 (16MP) and ZS3 (10MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SH-2 was unveiled 5 years after the ZS3 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the SH-2 matches up against the ZS3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SH-2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SH-2 Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

If you are intending to travel with your camera regularly, you'll need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus SH-2 provides physical measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS3 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SH-2 and Panasonic ZS3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the SH-2 versus the ZS3.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the SH-2 and ZS3 is 88 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to visualize the difference in sensor dimensions simply by going through technical specs. The image below should give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-2 and ZS3.

As you have seen, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Olympus SH-2 to show extra detail having an extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop shots more aggressively. The more recent SH-2 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.