Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic ZR3

Let's take a more detailed look at the Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic ZR3, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SP-100 (16MP) and the ZR3 (14MP) is pretty comparable and both cameras have the identical sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SP-100 was revealed 4 years after the ZR3 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera 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 ZR3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a full comparison, here is a quick overview of how the SP-100 grades against the ZR3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SP-100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3. The full galleries are available at Olympus SP-100 Gallery & Panasonic ZR3 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry around your camera, you will need to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SP-100 comes with exterior measurements of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") and a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZR3 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check the Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic ZR3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have attached at that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the SP-100 against the ZR3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SP-100 and ZR3 is 63 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it can be tough to envision the gap in sensor sizes purely by checking out specifications. The pic below should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-100 and ZR3.

Plainly, both of those cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same megapixels. You can expect the Olympus SP-100 to show greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The newer SP-100 will have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.