Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic ZS200

On this page, we will be evaluating the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic ZS200, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SH-3 (16MP) and the ZS200 (20MP) is pretty well matched but the SH-3 (1/2.3") and ZS200 (1") posses totally different sensor size.

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The SH-3 was brought out 24 months earlier than the ZS200 which makes them a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus SH-3 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic ZS200 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the SH-3 matches up vs the ZS200 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SH-3 & Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SH-3 Gallery & Panasonic ZS200 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SH-3 has exterior dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS200 has dimensions of 111mm x 66mm x 45mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 340 grams (0.75 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic ZS200 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you choose at that moment. The following is a front view scale comparison of the SH-3 against the ZS200.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-3 and ZS200 is 88 and 86 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes purely by checking technical specs. The image below will give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SH-3 and ZS200.

As you have seen, the two cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SH-3 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field trickier and the Panasonic ZS200 will give you extra detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged SH-3 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.