Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic SZ7

Let's take a closer look at the Olympus SH-3 versus Panasonic SZ7, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SH-3 (16MP) and the SZ7 (14MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SH-3 was manufactured 4 years later than the SZ7 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a detailed comparison, here is a simple summary of how the SH-3 grades against the SZ7 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SH-3 Gallery & Panasonic SZ7 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera frequently, you have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus SH-3 features exterior measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") having a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ7 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SH-3 versus Panasonic SZ7 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the SH-3 and the SZ7.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SH-3 and SZ7 is 88 and 95 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to picture the contrast between sensor sizing merely by checking technical specs. The visual here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-3 and SZ7.

As you can tell, both of those cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You can count on the Olympus SH-3 to give extra detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop photographs more aggressively. The younger SH-3 should have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.