Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic LZ20

Following is a detailed comparison of the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic LZ20, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SH-3 (16MP) and the LZ20 (16MP) is relatively similar and they use the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SH-3 was unveiled 3 years after the LZ20 which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SH-3 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go through a full comparison, below is a quick summary of how the SH-3 matches up vs the LZ20 when considering 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-LZ20. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SH-3 Gallery and Panasonic LZ20 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera regularly, you should think about its weight and volume. The Olympus SH-3 features exterior 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 LZ20 has sizing of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") accompanied by a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic LZ20 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the SH-3 and the LZ20.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-3 and LZ20 is 88 and 71 respectively.

Often, it can be difficult to picture the gap between sensor sizes just by reading technical specs. The pic here might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the SH-3 and LZ20.

As you can tell, both cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements and the exact same MP so you should expect similar quality of files although you may want to factor the production date of the products into consideration. The more modern SH-3 provides an advantage in sensor tech.