Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic GM1

On this page, we are comparing the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic GM1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SH-3 (16MP) and the GM1 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the SH-3 (1/2.3") and GM1 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The SH-3 was brought out 2 years later than the GM1 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Olympus SH-3 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a quick overview of how the SH-3 scores versus the GM1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus SH-3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-3 Gallery & Panasonic GM1 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera, you should consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SH-3 provides 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) while the Panasonic GM1 has dimensions of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic GM1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at that moment. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the SH-3 vs the GM1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SH-3 and GM1 is 88 and 93 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing simply by checking specifications. The visual below should offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-3 and GM1.

To sum up, both cameras provide the same megapixels but not the same sensor sizing. The SH-3 offers the tinier sensor which is going to make obtaining bokeh more difficult. The younger SH-3 is going to have a benefit in sensor technology.