Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic FH2

Let's take a deeper look at the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic FH2, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SH-3 (16MP) and the FH2 (14MP) is pretty comparable and both cameras have the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SH-3 was brought out 5 years later than the FH2 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the SH-3 scores vs the FH2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SH-3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-3 Gallery and Panasonic FH2 Gallery.

For those who are looking to lug around your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus SH-3 features external 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) and the Panasonic FH2 has proportions of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic FH2 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Underneath is a front view overall size comparison of the SH-3 versus the FH2.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the SH-3 and FH2 is 88 and 96 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to visualise the difference in sensor measurements merely by seeing specifications. The photograph here might give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-3 and FH2.

To sum up, both of those cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You should expect the Olympus SH-3 to show extra detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more modern SH-3 will have an advantage in sensor tech.