Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic 3D1

On this page, we will be looking at the Olympus SP-100 versus Panasonic 3D1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a sizable gap among the sensor resolutions of the SP-100 (16MP) and 3D1 (12MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SP-100 was launched 2 years after the 3D1 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight to a detailed comparison, here is a brief summation of how the SP-100 scores versus the 3D1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SP-100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SP-100 Gallery & Panasonic 3D1 Gallery.

If you're looking to travel with your camera, you need to take into account its weight and volume. The Olympus SP-100 provides outside dimensions of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") having a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs) whilst the Panasonic 3D1 has sizing of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SP-100 versus Panasonic 3D1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with at that time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the SP-100 vs the 3D1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SP-100 and 3D1 is 63 and 93 respectively.

Typically, its tough to envision the difference in sensor dimensions just by looking through technical specs. The picture underneath might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the SP-100 and 3D1.

As you have seen, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You can expect the Olympus SP-100 to provide you with more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots more aggressively. The fresher SP-100 will have an edge in sensor innovation.