Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic FZ80

Following is a in depth overview of the Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic FZ80, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SH-3 (16MP) and the FZ80 (18MP) is relatively comparable and both cameras provide the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SH-3 was revealed 11 months earlier than the FZ80 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SH-3 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going straight to a full comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the SH-3 scores vs the FZ80 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80. The full galleries are available at Olympus SH-3 Gallery and Panasonic FZ80 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera frequently, you will want to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SH-3 comes with external dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") along with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ80 has measurements of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") accompanied by a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic FZ80 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the SH-3 against the FZ80.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the SH-3 and FZ80 is 88 and 63 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to see the difference in sensor sizes merely by checking out specs. The image here should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the SH-3 and FZ80.

As you can plainly see, both cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Panasonic FZ80 to provide extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more aged SH-3 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.