Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic GF5

Below is a extended assessment of the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic GF5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a huge difference among the sensor resolutions of the SH-3 (16MP) and GF5 (12MP) and the SH-3 (1/2.3") and GF5 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor size.

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The SH-3 was unveiled 3 years later than the GF5 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SH-3 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight to a full comparison, here is a concise summation of how the SH-3 scores versus the GF5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus SH-3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SH-3 Gallery and Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus SH-3 features external measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF5 has measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") having a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic GF5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the SH-3 versus the GF5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-3 and GF5 is 88 and 89 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to see the contrast in sensor measurements simply by checking out technical specs. The photograph here should give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SH-3 and GF5.

As you have seen, both of these cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The SH-3 having a smaller sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field tougher and the Olympus SH-3 will provide extra detail having an extra 4MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos way more aggressively. The newer SH-3 will have an edge with regard to sensor technology.