Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic SZ1

Lets look a little more closely at the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic SZ1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SH-3 (16MP) and the SZ1 (16MP) is very well matched and they feature the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SH-3 was launched 4 years later than the SZ1 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a thorough comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the SH-3 scores against the SZ1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus SH-3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SH-3 Gallery and Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus SH-3 has 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) while the Panasonic SZ1 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

See the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic SZ1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are using at that time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the SH-3 vs the SZ1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SH-3 and SZ1 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to see the contrast between sensor measurements purely by checking technical specs. The visual underneath will offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SH-3 and SZ1.

As you can tell, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the identical megapixels therefore you should expect similar quality of images though you should really consider the release date of the products into consideration. The fresher SH-3 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.