Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic FZ70

Below, we are matching up the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic FZ70, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SH-3 (16MP) and the FZ70 (16MP) is very well matched and they feature the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SH-3 was launched 2 years later than the FZ70 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SH-3 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ70 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the SH-3 scores versus the FZ70 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus SH-3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ70. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SH-3 Gallery and Panasonic FZ70 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to lug around your camera, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus SH-3 comes with outer measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ70 has sizing of 130mm x 97mm x 118mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 4.6") having a weight of 606 grams (1.34 lbs).

Check the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic FZ70 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have during that time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the SH-3 and the FZ70.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SH-3 and FZ70 is 88 and 63 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to see the difference between sensor measurements merely by checking a spec sheet. The graphic below should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the SH-3 and FZ70.

As you can see, the two cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements and the same resolution and you should expect similar quality of pictures though you may want to take the release date of the products into consideration. The more modern SH-3 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.