Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic XS1

Following is a detailed comparison of the Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic XS1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SH-3 (16MP) and the XS1 (16MP) is fairly similar and both cameras boast the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SH-3 was brought out 3 years after the XS1 which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a in depth comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the SH-3 matches up against the XS1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus SH-3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The entire galleries are available at Olympus SH-3 Gallery and Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera often, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SH-3 has external measurements 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 XS1 has dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") with a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic XS1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have at the time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the SH-3 versus the XS1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the SH-3 and XS1 is 88 and 97 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes purely by reviewing technical specs. The picture here will give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the SH-3 and XS1.

As you have seen, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the same exact resolution and you should expect similar quality of images however you would want to factor the release date of the products into consideration. The more recent SH-3 provides an advantage in sensor innovation.