Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic FP3

Here, we will be analyzing the Olympus SP-100 versus Panasonic FP3, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Ultracompact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SP-100 (16MP) and the FP3 (14MP) is pretty similar and both cameras posses the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SP-100 was introduced 4 years later than the FP3 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving straight to a thorough comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the SP-100 matches up versus the FP3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SP-100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SP-100 Gallery & Panasonic FP3 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and size. The Olympus SP-100 offers 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) while the Panasonic FP3 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") and a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SP-100 versus Panasonic FP3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the SP-100 compared to the FP3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SP-100 and FP3 is 63 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to envision the difference between sensor measurements simply by reviewing specs. The graphic underneath will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the SP-100 and FP3.

As you can plainly see, both cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same megapixels. You can expect the Olympus SP-100 to deliver more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The fresher SP-100 will have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.