Olympus SH-3 vs Sony WX500

In this article, we will be matching up the Olympus SH-3 versus Sony WX500, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by companies Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the SH-3 (16MP) and the WX500 (18MP) is pretty close and they feature the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SH-3 was launched 10 months later than the WX500 and they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a short highlight of how the SH-3 grades vs the WX500 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SH-3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SH-3 Gallery and Sony WX500 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera regularly, you will need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SH-3 has got physical measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Sony WX500 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 236 grams (0.52 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SH-3 versus Sony WX500 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the SH-3 against the WX500.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SH-3 and WX500 is 88 and 91 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to imagine the difference in sensor sizing only by viewing a spec sheet. The graphic below will help give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-3 and WX500.

As you can see, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should expect the Sony WX500 to result in greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more recent SH-3 should have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.