Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic FZ300

On this page, we will be looking at the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic FZ300, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a noticeable gap among the image resolutions of the SH-3 (16MP) and FZ300 (12MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SH-3 was released 7 months later than the FZ300 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus SH-3 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving into a full comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the SH-3 scores against the FZ300 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SH-3 Gallery & Panasonic FZ300 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to lug around your camera regularly, you will want to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus SH-3 features exterior measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") along with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Panasonic FZ300 has sizing of 132mm x 92mm x 117mm (5.2" x 3.6" x 4.6") and a weight of 691 grams (1.52 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic FZ300 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are using during that time. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the SH-3 against the FZ300.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SH-3 and FZ300 is 88 and 59 respectively.

More often than not, it's hard to picture the contrast in sensor measurements only by researching a spec sheet. The graphic below will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-3 and FZ300.

Clearly, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You can count on the Olympus SH-3 to provide you with extra detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots more aggressively. The more modern SH-3 should have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.