Olympus SH-3 vs Panasonic ZS3

The following is a in-depth review of the Olympus SH-3 versus Panasonic ZS3, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the SH-3 (16MP) and ZS3 (10MP) but both cameras posses the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SH-3 was manufactured 6 years after the ZS3 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple view of how the SH-3 grades against the ZS3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus SH-3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-3 Gallery & Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to travel with your camera often, you should factor in its weight and size. The Olympus SH-3 offers exterior measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS3 has specifications of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check the Olympus SH-3 versus Panasonic ZS3 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have attached during that time. Here is a front view over all size comparison of the SH-3 vs the ZS3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SH-3 and ZS3 is 88 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to see the gap in sensor dimensions just by going through a spec sheet. The pic here will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-3 and ZS3.

As you can see, the two cameras come with the identical sensor size but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Olympus SH-3 to show extra detail due to its extra 6MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The more recent SH-3 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.