Olympus SH-2 vs Samsung NX3000

Here is a extended analysis of the Olympus SH-2 and Samsung NX3000, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Samsung. The sensor resolution of the SH-2 (16MP) and the NX3000 (20MP) is pretty comparable but the SH-2 (1/2.3") and NX3000 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SH-2 was revealed 10 months later than the NX3000 and they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus SH-2 being a Compact camera and the Samsung NX3000 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the SH-2 scores versus the NX3000 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SH-2 and Samsung NX3000. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-2 Gallery and Samsung NX3000 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus SH-2 offers outer measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX3000 has measurements of 117mm x 66mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.6" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SH-2 and Samsung NX3000 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have at the time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the SH-2 compared to the NX3000.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SH-2 and NX3000 is 88 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it can be difficult to envision the difference in sensor sizing only by seeing technical specs. The graphic here will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SH-2 and NX3000.

As you have seen, each of these cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SH-2 using its smaller sensor will make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Samsung NX3000 will provide more detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop photographs more aggressively. The more modern SH-2 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.